Italy took a narrow 143-142 victory over Tanzania in Group B of the Call Cup League on 18 August 2026. The result leaves Italy at the summit of the table with 26 points from 13 games, while Tanzania remain fifth with eight points.
It was another tight contest for both sides, and here's the thing — Italy have won four straight. They beat Hong Kong 175-174 the day before, then Singapore 172-170 on 14 August. Tanzania, by contrast, have been closer to the wire themselves, edging Bahrain 120-116 and Singapore 106-103 on their last two outings.
What stands out is the gap in consistency. Italy's lone defeat came against West Indies back in February, a 165-123 loss that feels distant now. Tanzania's form has been more volatile — they lost 142-71 and 314-211 to Uganda earlier this month, then bounced back with two one-point victories.
The margin between the sides was just one point, a fourth straight win for Italy that kept their heads after a couple of nailbiters. Tanzania kept their side in it until the final moments but couldn't find the extra basket needed.
Italy extend their lead at the top of Group B, while Tanzania's eight points keep them in the mix but firmly behind the leaders. The table tells the story — twelve wins against three, and that difference shows in the standings.