France vs Nigeria Preview and Prediction for 2024 Paris Olympics Women's Basketball | August 1, 2024

Modified Aug 01, 2024 08:58 GMT

Hosts France take on Nigeria on Thursday in a game that will likely decide who will finish top of Group B. Both teams snatched dramatic victories in their 2024 Paris Olympics openers, but it’s the hosts that currently occupy the top spot with a better point difference.

These two have faced each other three times, with France winning twice and Nigeria once. However, the African nation came out winners the last time the two sides met in 2022, securing a shock 67-65 win in the 2022 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup clash. Victoria Macaulay led the scoring with 18 points, while Oderah Chidom dominated in rebounds and assists.

France vs Nigeria odds, preview and prediction for 2024 Paris Olympics Basketball

Lille’s Pierre Mauroy Stadium will host the Group B game with France set to have a bumper home crowd supporting them. The stadium has a capacity of 27,000 spectators. The game will tip off at 11 am ET and will be shown on NBC’s Peacock and Fubo and relevant USA channels.

Moneyline: France (-104) vs. Nigeria (+1483)

Spread: France (-18.5) vs. Nigeria (+18.5)

Editor’s Note: The odds could change closer to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.

France vs. Nigeria Preview 2024 Paris Olympics Basketball

Les Bleues has become somewhat of a regular podium finisher in recent years and will certainly feel confident of adding another two points to its tally against the Nigerians.

France put on a quality showing in its opening game against Canada, with Marieme Badiane scoring 13 points and leading the rebounding with six. Gabby Williams contributed 12 points and led the team in assists with eight. If the Nigerians give the duo the slightest of chances near the basket, expect them to make the most of those opportunities.

A win on Thursday would see the Tokyo bronze medallists move to four points from two games, with qualification confirmed regardless of the result between Canada and Australia.

The D'Tigers came into this World Cup ranked 12th in the FIBA World Rankings, making them the lowest-seeded team in Group B, but they defied expectations as they beat No. 3 Australia in their opening group match.

Ezinne Kalu led the charge with a game-high 19 points, five assists, and five rebounds, while Promise Amukamara contributed 14 points, nine assists, and six rebounds. Their quick, counterattacking play could be crucial in their efforts to spoil the France party and continue their Olympic journey.

France vs. Nigeria: Prediction

This game is as open as they come, with neither team having anything to lose. The skill and experience of Valeriane Ayayi, Gabby Williams and Marieme Badiane should be enough to give hosts the edge. Buoyed by their fans, France should be able to overcome Nigeria and seal their fifth knockout stage appearance.