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 goes 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, arrive in high spirits after beating France in a superb game to secure qualification for the second round.
First quarter:
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.
Maximum lead of 11 points for Latvia! The Europeans continue to punish 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
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 is 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 halftime. Kelly Olynyk is Canada’s top scorer with 10 points, while Arturs Zagars leads Latvia with 11 points.
Third quarter:
Follow the take and give me in Jakarta. Canada seemed to get away early in the third quarter, but Latvia, with good offensive compasses, are two possessions behind. The game is for everyone.
Last room:
Eventually the heroic resistance of Latvia fell, already losing by more than 20 points to a Canada that never despaired and waited for its moment to take the reins of the game. Phenomenal performance by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 27 points.
Canada beat Latvia after a game that was remarkably even for much of the game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the hero in the end, scoring no fewer than 27 points.
