Belgrade (AFP)
The final of the Women's Basketball Euro will oppose, for the third time in four editions, Spain to France, Sunday (20:30) in Belgrade.
The Spanish title holders will be favorites against the French who will play their fourth final in a row after losing the previous three.
The Iberian selection, also titled in 2013, managed the performance to eliminate the Serbs in front of their public, 71 to 66, Saturday in half. The French had gotten rid of the guest-surprise of the last square, Great Britain, 63-56.
The Spanish led for most of the game thanks to their experienced players, Anna Cruz (14 points), Laura Nicholls, Marta Xargay and Laura Dominguez (10 points each).
They also relied again on a big match of their pivot Astou Ndour (17 points). The player of Senegalese origin is in the race for the title of MVP.
The match was almost turned in the fourth quarter, when the Serbs, worn by more than 10,000 fans, are briefly ironed in front. But they missed the few baskets that could have made the difference in the "money time", while the Spanish showed a great mental strength.
The French have won more difficult than expected against the British, never seen at this level. Their start of the match was even frankly calamiteux (2-13).
They stayed afloat (34-34 at half-time) thanks to the address of Marine Johannès (20 points, including 14 before the break). Then captain Endy Miyem took over the attack (16 points, including 14 in the second period) and the Blue led in the lead thanks to a big effort in defense.
? 2019 AFP