The 2022 FIBA U-18 African Championship came to an end on Sunday in Antananarivo, with Egypt claiming the title after an 81-54 win over hosts Madagascar. The Egyptians dominated from the early stages of the game as they won the first quarter 20-13 and continued with the same ferocity in the second one, to head into half time with a 20-point lead (41-21). By the end of the third quarter, Egypt looked unreachable with a 61-42 advantage. Around the fourth quarter, Madagascar brought out the artillery as they tried to close the gap. But it was too late. Egypts Ibrahim Bibo Zahran was crucial for the Pharaohs after contributing 26 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals and 21 efficiency. Seifeldin Hendawy was the other man of the moment for Egypt. He scored 12 points and 3 rebounds. Mathias MMadi, Jerry Pepin Rabibisoa and Andyerson Andriatsarafara - the only Malagasy to score in double figures - combined for 39 Madagascar points. Belal Elshakery, Egypts captain, was more than happy to have helped Egypt conquer the title once more. We fought throughout the entire tournament. We had some strong opposition, but we finally made it back to the top of Africa, says the 2.00m (6ft 7in) forward. But he admitted that things werent that easy for his side as they battled a pugnacious Madagascar who played in front of their public. The crowd was definitely fantastic, Very sportsmanlike and respectful. They understood that it was just a game and Id like to tell them that they are a fantastic crowd. I love the crowd here! Elshakery now has eyes set on the next FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup. We want to do what no Egyptian team has achieved before. That is to reach the Quarter-Finals and write our own piece of history. For Madagascars head coach Aime Marcel Randria, things didnt work out properly. We fell to the strongest team here. But we cannot have regrets.We did a great tournament, supported by a wonderful crowd. And we qualified for the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup for the first time in our history. So we cannot overlook what the boys have achieved. In the Classification Game earlier, Mali overtook Angola 79-54 to claim a third-place finish at this years FIBA U18 Africa Championship.
