Nigeria enjoyed a thrilling victory over hosts Mali ©FIBA

Nigeria survived a late fightback to claim a thrilling one point semi-final victory over hosts Mali at the Women's AfroBasket in Bamako today.

It set-up their first final appearance in over a decade at the continental event.

Nigeria had at one stage looked like they would win with ease at the Palais des Sports Salamatou Maïga.

They outscored they opponents 10-7 in the first quarter and 13-5 in the second in a low scoring encounter.

Mali edged the third 17-16 but a deficit of 10 points still appeared too much heading into the finale.

Mali fought back superbly but could not quite close the deficit ©FIBA
Mali fought back superbly but could not quite close the deficit ©FIBA

But, with home support making a big difference, they fought back with 18 points in the final period to agonisingly lose 48-47.

It marks Nigeria's first final appearance since they secured a second successive gold medal in 2005.

It also made partial amends for a one point defeat in the 2015 semi-final - 71-70 to previous hosts and eventual silver medallists Cameroon.

Defending champions Senegal stand in their way in the final.

They beat Mozambique 72-52 in the later semi-final.