Mali Shock Spain in Stunning Women’s Basketball World Cup Upset

Mali pulled off a stunning upset at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup on Saturday, defeating highly ranked Spain 82–73 in a dramatic Group A encounter in Berlin.

The victory marked only the second World Cup win in Mali’s history and the African side’s first-ever victory over a European opponent at the tournament.

Mali started brightly and led 19–17 after the opening quarter, but Spain responded strongly in the second period to take a 34–32 advantage into halftime.

The game changed dramatically after the break.

Mali exploded in the third quarter, outscoring Spain 31–19 to turn the contest in its favour. A decisive 16–4 run helped the West Africans move from a 45–44 deficit into a commanding lead, with Sika Koné playing a central role in the surge.

Koné finished with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Djeneba N’Diaye also contributed 19 points as Mali maintained its composure in the closing stages.

Spain attempted to fight back in the final quarter, but Mali remained in control. The Spaniards won the fourth period 20–19, but the deficit was too large to overcome.

The result was particularly significant given Spain’s impressive opening performance. Spain had defeated tournament hosts Germany 83–53 in their first Group A match, while Mali had entered the game after a narrow 102–97 defeat to Japan.

Spain struggled from three-point range against Mali, converting just 4 of 22 attempts, as the African side’s physical defence and second-half intensity proved decisive.

Both teams now have one victory and one defeat in Group A, setting up a tense final round of group matches.

Mali will face Germany on Monday, while Spain takes on Japan, with the results potentially determining which teams advance to the knockout stages.

For Mali, however, Saturday’s victory was already historic, a statement win that has announced the African side as a team capable of upsetting some of the tournament’s established powers.