Third round of the World Cup in Spain, featuring many interesting games in Groups A and B only. Teams are proving themselves how strong they are and will try not to lose pace with their rivals to qualify for the next stage.
Group A
Serbia defeated a hard working Iran 70-83. The match was decided in the third quarter, when Serbs got a 16-point advantage. Nemanja Bjelica provided 18 points and 10 rebounds, while the big Hamed Haddadi was almost unstoppable with 29 points. Somebody in Europe should give this guy a chance if NBA teams do not want him.
France had no issues with Egypt, winning 94-55. The African team is struggling to play up to the required standard in this World Cup. Marei’s absence has proven to be too much for them. On the other hand, all French players played at least 10 minutes, except Diaw, who got a well deserved rest.
Finally, Spain defeated Brazil 63-82 thanks to a great and spectacular first quarter. From then on, Spain only had to manage their lead properly. Pau Gasol scored in every possible way, registering 26 points. In the Brazilian squad, only Barbosa and Varejao could score in double digits.
Group B
Senegal is here to stay. The African side narrowly defeated Croatia 75-77 with an awesome game by a dominating Gorgui Dieng, who scored 27 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Dario Saric, who played without 6 teeth after yesterday’s incident with Nocioni, scored 15 and added 6 rebounds for the European side.
Argentina topped Philippines 85-81 thanks to a great job by Scola and Mata. Blatche could only play limited time in the first half due to foul problems, but Gilas managed to lead the score for a while. The match was a three-pointers war, and the South American squad killed its rival hitting up to 15 from behind the arc.
Greece managed to keep the lead of the group one more day by beating Puerto Rico 79-90. Zisis and Calathes paced the winners with 19 and 14 points each. Balkman tried his best for Puerto Rico, never giving up, with 23 points in the losing effort. Carlos Arroyo was unable to help his team mates due to an injury, and Puerto Rico is now one step away from elimination.
