It took a while to get going but France hit their stride when it mattered and eventually got the better of hosts Philippines 93-84 in the Olympic Qualifiers in Manila.
But the ambitious Philippine nation, with basketball embedded in their religion put up a brave fight and feeding off the wild 20,000 sell-out crowd inside the Mall of Asia Arena led 30-22 after the first quarter, but France fought back and once they hit their gears, were too strong for the hosts.
Euroleague MVP Nando De Colo led the winners with 27 points, Tony Parker added 21.
Andrey Blatche led Philippines with 21 points.
Earlier in the day, Canada put in an impressive showing, taking a 77-69 win over Turkey.
Starting quickly, the Canadians always looked in control despite pressure from the Turks. Cory Joseph paced the victors with 21 points.
Sinan Guler led Turkey with 14.
