After having won against Puerto Rico (98-65) and lost to USA (75-84), in Washington, Belgium flew to the Dominican Republic to face Russia, in Santo Domingo. A relocated meeting, because the Russians could not enter American territory, due to visa problems, and approval of the Sputnik vaccine, by the United States. It was the International Basketball Federation that decided to move the meetings from Russia to the Dominican Republic.
Valéry Demory trusts the 5 base which started against the United States. We find Delaere, Meeseman, Linskens, Lisowa and German. The Cats quickly take control in the game. Sharp in attack, the Belgians are formidable in defense, preventing the Russians from developing their game. Belgium leads 12-22 at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter is a little more complicated for the Cats. Valéry Demory insists on the defensive work of his players. The young Belgian team applies the instructions to the letter and makes the difference in key moments. The Belgians lead 27-41 at the break.
The Russians try to resist but Belgium control and continue to widen the gap. It’s 36-53 at the end of the 3rd quarter.
During the last ten minutes of the game, Russia increased in intensity but Belgium continued to widen the gap to finish the game 23 points ahead of the Russians (66-43).
Belgium validates its ticket for the World Cup. Meeseman (20 pts), Linskens (14 pts) and German (13 pts) scored 47 points between them. Valéry Demory has succeeded in mixing “executives” with young shootsthe chemistry is almost perfect, auguring well for the next big meetings of the Belgian Cats.
