Mali pull major upset for FIBA Women Basketball World Cup on Saturday, 5 September 2026, dem defeat Spain 82-73 for Group A pool play for Berlin. Mali wey dey rank 18th for world, overcome Spain side wey dey 12 places above dem for international ranking.
The result be Mali second win for Women World Cup history, after dia overtime victory over Senegal for 2010, and dia first ever against European team. Spain lead 34-32 for half-time, but Mali turn the game with decisive third quarter. Afta dem dey trail 45-44, 16-4 run power period wey Mali outscore Spain 31-19. Mali then open the fourth quarter with five straight points and hold on for the win.
Sika Koné and Djeneba N'Diaye lead Mali scoring with 19 points each. Koné add 10 rebounds for her fifth straight double-double, become the first player for Women World Cup history to achieve the feat. Her display earn her the official TCL Player of the Game honour.
The victory come as response to Mali opening-day 102-97 defeat by Japan. Attention now turn to dia next Group A fixture against hosts Germany for Berlin.
