The Senegal Lionesses pulled off terrific performance against the USA in their opening game of the 2018 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Spain. Still searching for her first world cup win, Senegal would be required to put the same tenacity on display against debutants Latvia.
Latvia was 5 seconds away from securing an historic first ever world cup win in Spain, only to fall narrowly to 2 late free throws from Liwei Yang in their 61-64 points loss to China, leaving their search for the big W at the worlds to continue.
HEAD TO HEAD
Latvia and Senegal have never met in any international women’s basketball game or friendly. It would be interesting to see which of the 2 teams will score their historic first win at the world cup.
KEYS TO WIN
Senegal:
Inside play: Oumoul Khairy Sarr and Mame Sy-Diop were outstanding against the formidable US front court posing an excellent Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart and Tina Charles. A replica of that display may just be too tough for the young Latvians to contain. Maintaining Astou Traore also comes to the party.
Latvia:
Transition: The Latvians are quick and have maximized it on both ends of the floor. With Steinberga as the pinnacle of the offense, the youthful Latvians will try to run ragged a much taller Senegalese side of fast break and ball movement.
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PLAYERS TO WATCH
Senegal: Oumoul Khairy Sarr, Astou Traore
Latvia: Anete Steinberga, Elina Dikaioulaku
PREDICTION
Senegal win
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Written by Femi Adefeso. Twitter: @IncredibleFemi
