Senegal Lionesses wrote their names in the history books as the first African country to defeat an European nation at the FIBA Women’s World Cup, beating Latvia 70-69.
A brilliant performance against world number one USA gave Senegal some impetus to become the first African country try to make the knockout round.
Latvia, making their debut at the World Cup had the odds stacked against them when you count that Senegal is in their 8th trip to the worlds and made their debut in 1975.
China will bring a different kind of opposition to Senegal in Spain. They have won both Silver – 1994 and Bronze – 1983 medals respectively at the World Cup and are facing elimination should they lose to Senegal in the last group game in Group D.
HEAD TO HEAD
China have met Senegal 3 times at the World Championships winning all encounters.
*106-55 Malaysia 1990.
*81-63 China 2002.
*71-69 Czech 2010.
KEYS TO WIN
Senegal:
Clean the glass (Rebounds): Oumoul Khairy Sarr, Mame Sy-Diop and Maimouna Diarra must have their A game on both ends of the floor to deny China second chance points while taking advantage element on the offensive glass, rebound. Thirty Seven year old, most valuable player at the 2017 Afrobasket, Astou Traore must also be at her scoring best, if Senegal truly want to will win.
China:
Inside Play: Towering at 6 foot 9 inches, Xu Han and 6’6″ Forward Sun Megran the twin tower will be the pinnacle of the Chinese offense, especially on the pick and roll, and 2nd chance points.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Senegal: Astou Traore , Yacine Diop
China: Ting Shao, Xu Han
PREDICTION
Senegal win
Written by Femi Adefeso. Twitter: IncredibleFemi
