Saitama (Japan) (AFP)

The French basketball players, led by the trio Evan Fournier, Rudy Gobert, Nicolas Batum, hardly qualified for the semi-finals of the Tokyo Games at the expense of Italy (84-75), Tuesday in Saitama, maintaining their dream of medal.

The Blues, who were favorites of this match after a successful group stage, notably marked by a resounding victory against the United States, nevertheless had to strive to win.

They will have another big challenge on Thursday against Luka Doncic's Slovenia.

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