Angola Triumphs Over DR Congo in FIBA World Cup Qualifier Opener

Luanda: Angola defeated the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) 100-68 on Thursday in their opening Group F match of the Fourth Qualification Window for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar, played in Dakar, Senegal. The African champions made a strong start and went into the interval with a comfortable 21-point lead (51-30), after winning the opening two quarters 25-20 and 26-10. According to Angola Press News Agency, DR Congo managed to balance the contest in the third quarter, winning the period 19-18, but Angola reasserted their dominance in the final quarter, which ended 31-19 and sealed a 100-68 victory. Aboubakar Gakou, with 18 points, was the game's leading scorer. Childe Dundo and Gerson Lukeny also delivered strong performances, each contributing 13 points. Angola started the match with Childe Dundo, Selton Miguel, Aboubakar Gakou, Cleusio Castro and Macachi Bráz. The top two teams from each group and the best third-placed side will qualify for the next stage. Africa has five places at the World Cup. In the second round of fixtures in the Dakar window, Angola will face Senegal on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and will conclude their participation on Sunday against Côte d'Ivoire at 4:30 p.m.