Without much serenity, the French basketball team resumed its march towards the quarter-finals of the World Cup.
The Tricolores obtained a narrow victory against modest Malians (59-45).
Jean-Aimé Toupane's players only had an eight-point lead five minutes from the end of the game.
With two successes and a defeat, Les Bleues can win their pass for the quarter-finals on Monday in the event of a victory against Japan and favorable results in the Australia-Serbia and Japan-Canada matches.
“We are far from what we could do at least to exist in this competition, nevertheless regrets the French coach, who has not forgotten his team's defeat against Canada the day before (59-45).
In a competition like this the rebound is essential.
We did not learn from our mistakes against Canada and Australia (70-57 victory).
We have trouble.
“Apathetic in defense, dominated on the rebound, the Blues were behind at the end of the first quarter.
They will probably have to avoid experiencing such a wake-up call against the Japanese, who had blocked their way to the final a little over a year ago at the Tokyo Olympics.
Back to winning ways 🙌
Despite a resilient Mali team, France move up to 2-1!#FIBAWWC x @FRABasketball pic.twitter.com/epKUZa2h8l
— FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup (@FIBAWWC) September 25, 2022
“The only positive point is that we never let go,” launched Toupane who rotated to preserve his frames.
Gabby Williams (14 pts, 7 rebounds and 6 assists) delivered a full performance and is working to pull her team up: “We fought.
You have to remember that, she said.
We are capable of doing better, we have to have confidence.
“Despite some waste, Iliana Rupert is gaining momentum (8 pts, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks) after arriving only Wednesday in the wake of the WNBA title won with the Las Vegas Aces.