Cairo, Egypt – Uganda opened their 2026 FIBA U18 AfroBasket Zone 5 Qualifiers campaign with a 52-40 victory over South Sudan in a Group B clash at Cairo Stadium Indoor Hall 2 on Friday evening.
Uganda established control early, winning the opening quarter 13-9 before extending their lead with a 16-9 second-quarter performance to take a 29-18 advantage into halftime.
South Sudan's Junior Bright Stars responded strongly after the interval, claiming the third quarter 14-10 to cut the deficit and keep themselves within reach heading into the final period.
However, Uganda closed out the contest in dominant fashion, winning the fourth quarter 13-8 to secure a deserved 52-40 victory and the opening points in Group B.
The defeat leaves South Sudan looking to bounce back when they face Kenya in their second Group B fixture on 26 July. The match will be crucial in the race for a place in the semi-finals on 28 July, with the final scheduled for 29 July.
The FIBA U18 AfroBasket Zone 5 Qualifiers in Cairo bring together the region's top junior national teams, with qualification places for the 2026 FIBA U18 AfroBasket Championship at stake.
