Tensions flew at the Women's Basketball World Cup as two Mali teammates broke out into a fight with each other following a recent loss.

They had just been dealt their fourth straight defeat in the tournament by Serbia, who won the match 81-68 in Sydney, Australia.

An investigation into the incident has been launched by The International Basketball Federation.

What happened between the Mali players?

Footage of the fight was caught on camera by Serbian news reporters, who were filming a post-match interview with Sasa Cado in the mixed zone following her side's victory.

Less than ten seconds into the clip, the interview was interrupted as distant shouting became a huge commotion.

Cado's reaction was one of complete shock and panic as the events unfolded right next to her.

The camera panned to show Mali teammates Salimatou Kourouma and Kamite Elisabeth Dabou throwing punches at each other before being swarmed by the rest of the team.

Members of staff also seemed to get involved in breaking up the fight but the video ended before tensions were diffused.

Watch: Mali players break out into brawl at Basketball World Cup

An official statement read: "FIBA acknowledged today that there was an altercation between Mali players in the mixed zone following the Group B game Serbia-Mali at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022.

"Following the incident, FIBA has opened an investigation. Once the investigation is concluded, FIBA will decide on any applicable disciplinary measures."

Basketball World Cup standings

The 2022 tournament is Mali's second Basketball World Cup, having qualified to replace Nigeria who were forced to withdraw due to 'administrative difficulties around the sport in their country.'

However, the Malians will not progress into the knockouts, having lost all five of their group stage games.

They suffered an opening defeat to Japan before hosts Australia issued a 118-58 thrashing in their second match. Mali then lost their remaining three fixtures to France, Serbia and Canada.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Alima Dembele of Mali and Yvonne Anderson of Serbia compete for the ball during the 2022 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Group A match between Serbia and Mali at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre on September 26, 2022 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

The Malians have now been knocked out of the World Cup after finishing bottom of Group B, along with Japan, South Korea, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Group A leaders USA progress into the knockouts along with China, Belgium, and Puerto Rico, while Group B sees the hosts sneak through in tow of France, Serbia, and leaders Canada.

The quarter-finals will get underway on September 29th in the lead up to the final and bronze medal match scheduled for October 1st.