Hungary led from the opening quarter and held off a late Nigerian surge at the Max-Schmeling-Halle. The result was Hungary’s first Women’s World Cup win in 28 years. Nigeria, the African champions, are now 0-2 after Friday’s 81-99 loss to South Korea.
Hungary won the first quarter 21-13 and stretched the gap to 36-26 at half-time. D’Tigress, coached by Rena Wakama, improved after the interval. Murjanatu Musa scored three baskets in succession. Captain Amy Okonkwo hit two three-pointers and Ezinne Kalu added a lay-up, but Hungary still took a 52-42 lead into the fourth.
Nigeria outscored Hungary 25-19 in the final period. Elizabeth Balogun and Victoria Macaulay drove the rally. Balogun’s late lay-up cut the deficit to two points. Réka Lelik then made two free throws to close the game at 71-67.
Amy Okonkwo led Nigeria with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists. Elizabeth Balogun scored 13. Ezinne Kalu finished with 11 points and a game-high nine assists. Victoria Macaulay added 11 points off the bench in 17 minutes. Murjanatu Musa had 10 points and four rebounds.
The pattern of the two group games is now clear. Nigeria have competed in stretches — they were close at half-time against South Korea and they closed this one to two points — but they have been punished for slow starts. Hungary shot more efficiently and protected the lead when the game tightened.
D’Tigress face France, the Group B leaders, on Monday, 7 September. France have already beaten Hungary and South Korea. A win would keep Nigeria’s knockout hopes alive; another defeat would end their campaign at the group stage.
Saturday was closer than Friday, and the fourth-quarter fight will encourage Wakama’s staff. Two losses from two still leave no margin. France will not offer the same late window Hungary almost allowed to close.