Mandeville Indoor Sports Arena, Johannesburg, South Africa – The South African U23 men’s wheelchair basketball team, known as the Sasol AmaWheelies, extended their unbeaten run at the 2025 IWBF Africa U23 Men’s Championship with two solid victories on Day 4 of the tournament. With qualification for the IWBF U23 World Championships in Brazil later this year on the line, the South African team delivered composed and disciplined performances, defeating DR Congo 67-28 in the morning and Liberia 103-11 in the afternoon.
Coming into the fourth day of competition, South Africa held a 2-0 record, having secured back-to-back 47-34 wins over Egypt and Libya. With momentum on their side, the team looked to build on their strong start and reinforce their credentials as title contenders.
South Africa vs DR Congo – Breaking Through a Resilient Opponent
The opening match of the day saw South Africa take on DR Congo, a team determined to disrupt the AmaWheelies’ rhythm. South Africa got off to an ideal start, scoring within seven seconds, but DR Congo responded well, getting their first points on the board within the first two minutes. By the end of the first period, South Africa led 15-8, though the game remained competitive.
The second period saw DR Congo continue to challenge, closing the gap to just 17-15 within the first five minutes. However, South Africa responded in measured fashion, tightening their defense and launching a 12-0 scoring run to extend their lead to 29-15. By halftime, they had established a 31-17 advantage.
In the third period, DR Congo once again showed resilience, keeping pace with South Africa for the first five minutes (4-4). Yet, as they had done earlier, South Africa shifted gears in the latter half of the period, outscoring DR Congo 13-4 to take a 45-25 lead into the final quarter.
South Africa’s defensive discipline and structured play came to the fore in the final stretch, restricting their opponents to just three points in the last period while adding 22 of their own. This ensured a 67-28 victory, keeping their unbeaten run intact.
South Africa vs Liberia – A One-Sided Contest
The second match of the day, against Liberia, presented a different challenge. Liberia, still in search of their first win, struggled to match South Africa’s pace and tactical execution.
The AmaWheelies started strongly, taking the first period 26-0, and maintained their intensity to lead 52-3 at halftime. Despite Liberia’s efforts, the difference in experience and execution was evident as South Africa continued to dominate through effective squad rotation and tactical awareness.
The third and fourth quarters followed a similar pattern, with South Africa winning them 27-4 and 24-4, respectively. The final score of 103-11 reflected a controlled and professional performance, with the team maintaining focus throughout.
Looking Ahead – Knockout Rounds Approach
South Africa now heads into their final group-stage match against Kenya at 18:00 tonight, looking to maintain their momentum ahead of the knockout rounds.
With the semi-finals scheduled for tomorrow and the final set for Wednesday at 17:00, the tournament is entering its decisive phase. Egypt and Libya, two teams that played out a closely contested 38-35 match, remain South Africa’s likely challengers for the championship title and the crucial IWBF U23 World Championship qualification spot.
As the competition intensifies, the Sasol AmaWheelies will aim to build on their strong performances while remaining focused on the ultimate prize—securing their place at the global event later this year.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- South Africa vs Kenya – Tonight at 18:00
- Semi-finals – Tuesday
- Final – Wednesday at 17:00
With the tournament nearing its climax, South Africa remains in a strong position but will need to maintain their consistency and composure as they chase continental glory.
For More South African Sport News: Sport South Africa Home Page
For More South African Basketball News:
South Africa’s U23 Wheelchair Basketball Team Powers Past Libya to Secure Second Victory
South Africa Gears Up for High-Stakes 2025 IWBF U23 Men’s Africa Championship in Johannesburg
