A very narrow defeat against Brazil (63-65), followed by a much needed win against Serbia (74-73). Two games into their FIBA World Cup campaign, it’s not been fantastic, but it’s not been terrible either. So, cup half full or cup half empty?
Cup half full. Without a doubt. For France, this tournament is full of new and dangerous obstacles; having to deal with no Tony Parker, the soul of the team, absences of many key players such as Noah and De Colo, but also a group stage that is very tough to handle. European champions in 2013, France have the burden of expectation to carry. France, therefore, are expected to advance through the group stages (top four teams go through to round of 16), along with Brazil, Spain and Serbia.
The defeat in the opening game to Brazil was one France can deal with. The tournament opener, after a shaky month of preparation, was always going to be tough. However, yesterday’s game against Serbia was a must win in order to avoid 4th place in the group, which would mean playing the winner of group B (probably Greece) in round of 16. Their one point victory wasn’t particularly spectacular, but it showed that this French side could handle the high pressure of the closing moments of a fourth quarter. Boris Diaw, 39 seconds before the buzzer, took control of the game, with a basket that tied the game up, before forcing Bogdanovic to a turnover. For France, knowing they can rely on a leader to make big plays like that is more than reassuring, it’s essential. In past years, Tony Parker was that man, and now Diaw and Batum seem to be there to replace him.
For France, the three remaining games are of high importance. In order to finish as high as possible in the group, France need two big victories over Egypt and Iran to maximize their points difference, and then ideally a win against European rivals, and hosts, Spain. That would probably secure a top two finish in group A, giving them an easier round of 16.
France have one huge advantage in this World Cup: They are not in USA’s half of the bracket. This means that if they were to meet them, it would only be in the final of the tournament. In the knockout rounds, France’s biggest challenge would be Spain, and if they can pass that they will have a relatively open route to the final.
Next game for France today, where they will be striving for a big win against Egypt.
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photo credit: Ann-Dee Lamour (NDii) via photopin cc
