Mali pulled off a major upset at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup on Saturday, 5 September 2026, defeating Spain 82-73 in Group A pool play in Berlin. Ranked 18th in the world, Mali overcame a Spain side sitting 12 places above them in the international rankings.
The result marked Mali’s second win in Women’s World Cup history, following their overtime victory over Senegal in 2010, and their first ever against a European team. Spain led 34-32 at half-time, but Mali turned the game with a decisive third quarter. After trailing 45-44, a 16-4 run powered a period in which Mali outscored Spain 31-19. Mali then opened the fourth quarter with five straight points and held on for the win.
Sika Koné and Djeneba N’Diaye led Mali’s scoring with 19 points apiece. Koné added 10 rebounds for her fifth consecutive double-double, becoming the first player in Women’s World Cup history to achieve the feat. Her display earned her the official TCL Player of the Game honour.
The victory came as a response to Mali’s opening-day 102-97 defeat by Japan. Attention now turns to their next Group A fixture against hosts Germany in Berlin.
