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Despite a great comeback, the National Team fell 71-66 against the home team at the beginning of the contest in Pasaje. This Thursday, against Paraguay.
False step for the U15 men’s National Team in its debut in the South American Championship in Pasaje, in Ecuador. Those led by Juan Pablo Fernández recovered from an 18-point deficit during the second half but fell at the end against the local team 71-66. Argentina took the lead for the first time only in the last stretch of the game, but could not close it and their rival sealed the victory with offensive rebounds and effectiveness from the line.
It was an adverse first half for the national team, which lost the opening quarter by 25-16 and the second by 18-10, to go to halftime with a 43-26 disadvantage. But with a lot of self-love and great sacrifice in defense, the boys scored a 22-12 run in the third period to get fully into the match. The momentum continued at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Argentina tied, took the lead and reached four points at the end, but their rival reacted. Supported by the large crowd, Ecuador showed character and regained the advantage by charging on the rebound and forcing turnovers. At the end it was anyone’s game, Argentina missed a couple of clear shots and the victory went to the home team.
Ian Torres was the top scorer of the national team with 16 points plus 13 rebounds. Facundo Mathieu and Tomás Sandes contributed 12 units each, while Juan Dollberg added 8 and 9 recoveries. Argentina shot 3 of 19 from three points and committed 25 turnovers. With no time for regrets, the boys will have to recover quickly since this Thursday, at 7:30 p.m., they will face Paraguay, for the second date, with their hopes of reaching the semifinals intact.
STATISTICS
Photos: Courtesy of FIBA
