Nadir Manuel starred for the Angolans with 21 points as both teams secured qualification for the 2014 FIBA World Championship in Turkey, but it was the defending champions that retain the title of African champions as they edged out their opponents in a closely-fought contest.

At a sold out Maxaquene Gymnasium in Maputo, the game was tied at 29-29 at the half-way stage as both sides struggled to find a way to take control, but after Angola opened up a four-point advantage going into the fourth period, it looked likely that the Afrobasket trophy would be heading back to Angola.

But the hosts came back to level the game up once again to the delight of the crowd, and even held the lead with less than 20 seconds left on the clock, but it was star player Manuel who levelled the game at 54-a-piece right at the death to force five minutes of overtime.

The champions finally managed to assert their authority in the overtime period, scoring 10 points to their opponents seven to ensure they would retain the title.

Both sides qualified for next year's women's World Championship by winning their respective semi-finals.

Senegal took the bronze medal after they defeated Cameroon 56-53 in another tight match.

The former champions' forward Astou Traore proved the difference as she netted 14 points, also getting four rebounds, three steals and two assists.

Next year's FIBA World Championship for Women is due take place from late September to early October next year, with matches set to take place in Istanbul and Ankara.

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