CPV- Correia earns historic bronze for Cape Verde

LUANDA (FIBA Africa Championship) - Mario Correia scored a three-pointer five seconds from the buzzer to help Cape Verde achieve their first ever medal in the FIBA Africa Championship after a 53-51 victory over Egypt at the Cidadela Desportiva Arena on Friday.

Rodrigo Mascarenhas put in a match-winning performance with 15 points and 12 rebounds while Correia finished with 10 points for the islanders.

Ashraf Rabie poured in 12 points for Egypt, but it was not enough as the surprise team of the tournament clinched the bronze medal.

Correia’s trey proved the difference between the teams as Egypt made only one of eight three-pointers during the game.

At the break Egypt led 32-26, but Emanuel “Mane” Trovoada’s underdogs fought back taking the second half 27-19 to write their name in the history books.

Overall, Cape Verde ended the competition with a 4-2 record, losing twice against the host team Angola - first in the group stage and then the semi-finals.

In the day’s other games, Nigeria finished fifth after needing extra-time to beat Tunisia 83-82. The game was tied at 69-69 at the end of regulation.

On Saturday, Cameroon face Angola for the right to be crowned winners of the 24th FIBA Africa Championship.

Julio Chitunda
FIBA