After the match snatched by Spain against Greece, the Pierre-Mauroy stadium does not have much time to prepare for the second match of the day, still in the “group of death”, between Canada et Australia.
And the bad news for Jordi Fernandez is that if Shai Gilgeous-Alexander starts with his mid-range special, he has to go to the bench in less than two minutes, because of two quick fouls. Australia takes advantage, even if the Boomers only take a very short lead. After ten minutes, Canada is only trailing by two points (28-26), while Dante Exum has returned and Dillon Brooks has warmed up with Josh Giddey…
Led by Josh Giddey and Patty Mills, but also the impact of Dyson Daniels, Australia managed to stay in the lead at half-time (49-45) but the gap was minimal, due to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s return to action.
After twenty minutes of play, there have already been nine draws and ten changes of leader in this match!
Defensive intensity makes the difference
The Canadian intensity increased again after the break and Brian Goorjian, the Australian coach, had to call a timeout after a 3-pointer from Lu Dort which put Canada at +4 (58-54).
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates seem to be taking control of the game but the Australians are tough, and have no intention of letting the game slip away… and the potential first place in the group. Dante Exum’s aggression and Jack McVeigh’s skill off the bench allow them to stay in the game, while Lu Dort, in charge of Josh Giddey’s case, snatches the ball from the Bulls player’s hands.
With ten minutes to go, Canada only leads by two points (72-70) but Canada’s physical work in defense pays off, as a 3-pointer from RJ Barett forces Brian Goorjian to call a timeout (81-72).
Stifled by Lu Dort in the first curtain, and the quick assists behind, Josh Giddey disappeared in the second half, while Jock Landale, who had hurt Spain a lot near the circle, had trouble being served, and was jostled as soon as it was the case. Canada therefore wins (93-83) and takes first place in the “group of death”.
2024-07-30 13:13:26
#Olympics #Canada #advances #quarterfinals #beating #Australia #USA #Basketball
