Canada and Latvia conclude their participation in the first phase of the FIBA this Tuesday, August 29, when they meet in an attractive duel for the lead in Group H of the competition, from which France has already been surprisingly eliminated.
The Canadian team went into the game as favorites after beating France and Lebanon with a few defeats, supported at a fantastic level by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, one of the great figures of the World Cup. Latvia, for their part, arrived in high spirits after beating France in a superb game to secure qualification for the second round.
Great start for Latvia! The Europeans get three triples in a row at the start of the game. Canada suffers on defense.
For the first time at the Basketball World Cup, Canada doesn’t look happy with the signing. Latvia remains in order and leads thanks to four three-pointers made.
Maximum lead of 11 points for Latvia! The Europeans continue to punish with triples. Canada has improved slightly on defense, but the offense hasn’t started yet.
The Latvian team has made five three-pointers in 10 attempts, giving them a chance to end the first quarter victorious with a score of 23-13. Canada are not yet in the game and need to put in a better second quarter if Latvia is not to slip.
The second part of the game begins.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s three-pointers keep Canada alive but Arturs Zagars takes the winning lead from Latvia, who are a maximum of 12 points clear.
Latvia’s offensive dies down and Canada finally manages to capitalize on its chances. With less than two minutes to go, Canada are getting close to three points.
Great basket at the end by RJ Barrett! The New York Knicks player counterattacked to give Canada a 43-42 lead that, against all odds, meant a win at half-time. Kelly Olynyk is Canada’s top scorer with 10 points while Arturs Zagars leads Latvia with 11 points.
