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The United States women’s basketball team continued their dominant pursuit of an eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal by defeating Nigeria 88-74 in the quarter-finals. The victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against Australia, who overcame Serbia with an 85-67 win. The semi-final will take place on Friday, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the gold-medal match.
Nigeria’s journey to the quarter-finals was historic, as they became the first African team, male or female, to reach this stage of the Olympic basketball tournament. Their achievement was secured with a decisive win over Canada in their final group match. Although Nigeria had an impressive start to their Olympic campaign, including a victory over Australia in their opening pool game, the challenge posed by the experienced American team proved insurmountable.
In their match against the USA, Nigeria, known as D’Tigress, ended the first quarter trailing by nine points. The gap widened to 19 points by halftime as the Americans began to impose their will. By the third quarter, the USA extended their lead to 28 points, ultimately securing a comfortable victory at Accor Arena.
Since the inception of women’s basketball at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, the United States has been a formidable force, claiming nine out of twelve possible gold medals. Their continued dominance in the sport underscores their status as the team to beat.
The upcoming semi-final between the USA and Australia promises to be an exciting contest. Australia, having dispatched Serbia with a commanding performance, will be eager to challenge the Americans for a place in the final.
In the other semi-final, hosts France will face Belgium. France advanced by defeating Germany, while Belgium triumphed over Spain with a 79-66 victory. Marine Johannes was instrumental in France’s 84-71 win, scoring a game-high 24 points. France, aiming to complete their medal collection with a gold on home soil, previously won silver at the London 2012 Olympics and bronze at Tokyo 2020.
Belgium, making their Olympic debut in 2020 and finishing seventh, have shown remarkable progress. Their win against Spain ensures they will compete for a medal in Paris, marking a significant milestone for the team.
The semi-finals set the stage for a thrilling showdown, with the losers moving to the bronze medal match. The world will be watching as these talented teams compete for Olympic glory.
Melissa Enoch
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