In an almost full Accor Arena in Paris-Bercy, the Blues largely won against the Czech Republic on Wednesday evening (95-60). But they got scared. In particular because they have not been able to divest themselves, despite the warnings of their coach Vincent Collet, of their annoying tendency to play the diesels since the start of the preparation. This time, the meeting was not friendly since it launched the second qualifying round for the 2023 World Cup.
The Blues led at the break
Under the eyes of its public, the French team still ended up winning, quite largely even, against an opponent however deprived of its master to play, Thomas Satoransky (ankle), and finally overwhelmed by the qualities tricolor athletics.
At 2-10 after three minutes of play, then 25-37 at the end of the second quarter, there was no indication of such a reversal of the situation. Because Vincent Collet’s men have long struggled to release their game, dependent on Guerschon Yabusele (12 points at the break, 16 in the end, his record in blue).
A one-sided second half
Returning to four points at the break (38-42, 20th), the Blues have very frankly accelerated in the wake of their burst of pride. Rudy Gobert and Evan Fournier finally found offensive solutions while Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot, weighed down by faults, chained baskets and good game readings (16 points, personal best in selection too).
Once in the shelter (73-53, 32nd), the French kept up the pressure with the bench players, allowing a large squad review in a great atmosphere, and some spectacular actions.
Tarpey still in sight
While the return of Andrew Albicy to the group will force Vincent Collet to make a choice between now and the start of the Euro (September 1), there is still time to score points for those whose place is not guaranteed.
Le Mans player Terry Tarpey, who is one of them, showed exemplary aggressiveness and defensive thrashing, as reflected in his impressive start to the third quarter, particularly in shot protection ( 1 interception and 3 blocks in the period alone). Crucial to change the tone of the match, after returning from the locker room.
Before going to Cologne (Germany), where they will start the Eurobasket against the Germans, France will pass through Bosnia to play their second match of this international window, Saturday (8 p.m.). The opportunity to get a little closer to qualifying, but above all to make the final adjustments, and the final choices, before the big meeting at the end of the summer.
