France – Canada, first place in group A already at stake

After their victory against Serbia (81-68) at the opening of the U17 Men’s World Cup this Saturday, the French team faces Canada this Sunday, from 3:45 p.m. The challenge is simple for Les Bleuets, a victory and first place in group A would be validated (if Serbia wins against New Zealand, in the match at 1:15 p.m.). But winning against the Canadiens won’t be easy. This Saturday, they were able to demonstrate their strong athletic potential against the New Zealanders, with a large success without force (94-46). Among the prominent players on the Canadian side, we note the elegant rear Ishan Sharma (16 points in 20 minutes on Saturday) or the Quebec pivot Olivier Rioux, measured at 2.28 m when he is only U16. Asked this Saturday after the victory against Serbia, French coach Bernard Faure was wary:

“It’s a team that has great athletic potential, which plays a lot in first intention, like the Americans anyway. They put defensive pressure. We are used to this kind of thing, we played international teams with the same defensive pressure. That shouldn’t put us off. Even if we actually know them a little less well, we’re going to scout them at night, we’re going to find things that can impact them, above all, but I think we need to make further progress in defence. We still only defend well by period, I think that the hallmark of this team, beyond having offensive talent, is the defensive block that it can still improve and (propose) over 40 minutes. »

The first place has an important stake since it would allow the French to avoid a confrontation with the United States, probable first of group C, until the possible final. As always, Team USA remains the favorite in this competition, having enjoyed themselves against the frail Lebanese selection (120-44) this Saturday. So don’t miss France – Canada, this Sunday at 3:45 p.m. on the FIBA ​​YouTube channel.

To Alhaurin de la Torre (Andalousie),