Spain, Poland, Serbia, Italy, Argentina and Russia became the first six teams that qualified for the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Group A
In a late thriller at the Wukesong Arena in Beijing, Poland survived China in overtime (76-79, 72-72 at the end of regulation).
Therefore, Poland remained undefeated in the group (2-0) and advanced to the second round, while China’s qualification now is in jeopardy.
A dominant performance in the first half allowed Venezuela to earn an easy victory over Cote d’Ivoire and remain alive in the qualification battle (87-71).
Whoever wins the battle between China and Venezuela on Wednesday (04/09) will follow Poland in the next round.
Group B
Argentina and Russia defeated Nigeria and Korea, respectively, and secured their spot in the second round.
In a historic day for their leader Luis Scola, the Argentinians outscored the Nigerians 38-51 in the second half and went on to win the game (81-94).
At the same time, Russia took over in the second half and rallied past Korea (73-87), thanks to a 12-23 run in the third quarter.
Argentina and Russia will face each other on Wednesday (04/09), with the winner claiming the top spot in the group.
Group C
Puerto Rico was not an easy opponent for Spain (21-17, 35-36), yet a 10-21 run in the third quarter let the Spaniards earn a double-digit lead (45-57) and seal the deal (63-73).
Spain remained undefeated in the tournament (2-0) and clinched its spot in the second round of the tournament.
Tunisia took over from the opening tip and overpowered Iran (79-67), improving its chances to advance to the second round.
The duo of Michael Roll (16 points) and Salah Mejri (22 points) combined for 38 points and handed their team the victory.
The winner of the match between Puerto Rico and Tunisia on Wednesday (04/09) will advance to the next round. Iran was eliminated.
Group D
Just like in Group B, the two teams that claimed the top two spots have also been decided. Serbia and Italy dominated the Philippines and Angola, respectively, and secured their place in the second round.
Their clash on Wednesday (04/09) will determine who will finish first in Group D.
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