OUAGADOGOU (Burkina Faso) - The stage is set for the 2026 FIBA Africa U18 Qualifiers for Zone 3, and the reigning champions, Nigeria, are expected to retain the regional title they claimed in 2024.
However, Nigeria's path to retaining the title in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, where the Final Round will take place, may be more challenging than anticipated, as Benin and the host nation, Burkina Faso, are poised to put up a strong fight.
Michael Ikima, the head coach of Nigeria's U18 team, is leaving nothing to chance in this endeavour.
He recognises that Nigeria cannot afford to let their guard down or lower their standards, and he is determined to lead his team to victory and reclaim the Zone Three title.
The Benin team was the runner-up to Nigeria in 2024 when Côte d'Ivoire hosted the Qualifiers, suffering a 108-59 defeat.
This time, however, they are determined to Make a difference by showing how much they have improved and how ready they are to cause an upset.
The Cheetahs, as the team is fondly called, arrived in Ouagadougou early and remain confident that they can improve on their performance in 2024.
Head coach Mohamed Lanian is optimistic that his players will put up a good fight in the qualifiers, which will take place from 6 to 11 July 2026 in the Ouaga 2000 gymnasium.
They will face hosts Burkina Faso in their opening game and hope to make it a memorable encounter.
As for hosts Burkina Faso, reaching the final round in Abidjan is non-negotiable, as they are already looking further ahead.
Coach To René has one clear mission: to secure qualification for the final stages of the competition.
He says his players know that the challenge ahead is no small feat, with strong teams from Nigeria and Benin standing in their way.
Yet, after weeks of rigorous preparation with the young talents they know so well, the players know exactly what is expected of them.
René believes his squad is ready to rise to the occasion and make the desired impact expected by their home fans.
"Confidence is high in the camp and the players are determined to carry the nation’s flag with pride. With discipline, teamwork and passion, they aim to raise the flag of the Land of Upright Men to new heights.”
For the three teams here, the battle promises to be fierce, and Burkina Faso will rely on home support to turn things around.
The top-ranked team will qualify for the final round, where the champions from the other zones will compete for honours.
FIBA