2013 AfroBasket: Angola set final date with Egypt; qualify for 2014 Spain World Cup

Power Forward Reggie Moore of Angola in action against hosts Cote d’Ivoire in semi-final of 2013 AfroBasket.

Angola qualified for the 2014 Spain FIBA World Cup and advanced to the final of AfroBasket 2013 following a convincing semi-final victory over hosts Cote d’Ivoire.

Angola dominated the first quarter and to take it 23-10. Hosts Cote d’Ivoire bounced back strongly to take the second quarter 26-10. Going to the break, Cote d’Ivoire led 36-33 to Angola.

Angola upped their game in the third, to outscore their opponents 21-10 to open an eight point lead going into the fourth and decisive quarter. Cote d’Ivoire did not go out with a fight as they took the last quarter 13 – 12, but the damage was already done. Angola won 66 – 59.

With the win, Angola landed an automatic ticket for the 2014 Spain FIBA World Cup and are in the final of the 27th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (2013 AfroBasket), where they will be meet five-time champions Egypt.

Carlos Morais, top scored for Angola with 13 points and 3 rebounds. Forward Reggie Moore also poured in 13 points and 2 rebounds, while guard Olimpio Cipriano contributed 10 points and 4 rebounds. Power Forward Mamadou Lamizana top scored with 15 points for the hosts.

Senegal will face Cote d’Ivoire in the third-place game in Abidjan and for the remaining place on offer for the 2014 Spain FIBA World Cup.