Zhang Ziyu Leads China Past Nigeria in Tight World Cup Warm-Up

Posted : 09 August 2026

China defeated Nigeria 70-67 in Haikou on Friday as both teams continued preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin. Zhang Ziyu produced a game-high 24 points and 11 rebounds to lead the hosts to victory in the opening meeting of a three-game warm-up series.

Nigeria pushed China throughout the contest and entered the final minute level at 67-67. Zhang then converted with 15.1 seconds remaining to restore China's lead, while Nigeria could not find the basket before the final buzzer.

The 19-year-old centre was highly efficient from the field, making 11 of her 15 attempts. Her size created problems for Nigeria early, with Zhang scoring eight consecutive points in the opening quarter.

Nigeria responded with physical defence and strong work on the offensive glass. The D'Tigress collected 27 offensive rebounds, nine more than China, and used their second-chance opportunities to stay within touching distance throughout the game.

China led 22-20 after the first quarter before Nigeria levelled the contest. The hosts went into halftime with a narrow 39-38 advantage and extended the margin to 55-52 after three quarters.

The final period produced a tense finish. Wang Siyu converted one of two free throws to put China ahead before Zhang made an important defensive stop and followed it with the basket that ultimately decided the game.

Murjanatu Musa led Nigeria's scoring with 15 points. Promise Amukamara added 10 points as the African champions demonstrated their ability to compete with one of the leading teams preparing for the World Cup.

China struggled from long range, making only three of 18 three-point attempts. Yang Shuyu contributed 12 points, while coach Gong Luming admitted his team still needed to improve its defensive rebounding and ball security after the narrow victory.

The result gives China an early advantage in the three-game preparation series, but Nigeria's performance provided valuable competition ahead of the tournament. The D'Tigress are the reigning African champions and are using the China trip as part of a wider preparation programme before continuing their World Cup build-up in Europe.

The teams will meet again in Haikou on Sunday before the final friendly in Foshan next Wednesday. The 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup will take place in Berlin from September 4 to 13, with both nations continuing their preparations for the global tournament.

Zhang Ziyu Leads China Past Nigeria in Tight World Cup Warm-Up

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