São Paulo, Nov 24 (EFE).- The Brazilian basketball team defeated Panama this Sunday in the city of Belém by a resounding 93-67 and guaranteed its qualification for the 2025 Americup, the continent’s main tournament.
The team led by Aleksandar Petrovic dominated the match from the beginning and opened a 15-point lead in the second quarter, against some Panamanians who were reluctant to aim.
Panama reacted in the third quarter and reduced the difference, although the Brazilians did not let up and managed to keep the rival away on the scoreboard.
João Cardoso, known as Mãozinha, was the most outstanding player of the game, scoring 19 points on baskets that several times brought the crowd to its feet.
Brazil came into the matchup with confidence after beating Uruguay 71-65 on Thursday, a tough game that at times tested the skill of the Latin American giant’s team.
With two more games remaining in the qualifying round, a so far undefeated Brazil leads Group B with eight points, followed by Uruguay, with seven; Panama, with five; and Paraguay, with four.
The best three in the group will qualify for the Americup to be held in August 2025 in Nicaragua. EFE
