The German women’s national basketball team rebounded from their opening-game loss at the home World Cup in Berlin, securing a 74–58 victory over Japan at the Max-Schmeling-Halle. Following an 83–53 defeat to Spain to open the tournament, head coach Olaf Lange’s squad leveled their Group A record, keeping their quarterfinal qualification hopes entirely in their own hands ahead of their fixture against Mali.
Turning the Tide After a Rough Opener
Just 24 hours after a difficult start against Spain, the tournament hosts delivered a starkly different performance in front of 8,367 cheering fans. The German side built an early cushion by limiting Japan’s perimeter threats and capitalizing on their size advantage in the paint. According to tournament reports, Frieda Bühner paced the scoring effort with 19 points, while WNBA player Nyara Sabally added 18 points to anchor the frontcourt.
“We want to attack. We want to come out with energy,” Emily Bessoir said regarding the tactical adjustment required after the initial setback against Spain. Head coach Olaf Lange noted that while the team felt frustrated following the opening-day defeat, the group approached the second fixture with renewed momentum and sharper ball movement.
Defending Against Japan’s Perimeter Game
Entering the matchup, the German coaching staff placed a primary focus on neutralizing Japan’s perimeter shooting. Japan had previously set tournament records by sinking 20 three-pointers during their opening victory against Mali, with Saki Hayashi netting nine from beyond the arc. Germany’s defensive scheme limited those long-range opportunities, holding the opposition in check while establishing a 14–0 run in the opening quarter to claim a 28–11 lead.
The squad managed this tactical shift despite playing without playmaker Alexis Peterson, who missed the contest due to an acute infection. Britta Daub stepped into the starting lineup to fill the void, helping stabilize the backcourt as Germany maintained control through a fluctuating second half.
Group A Showdown Awaits Against Mali
The group standings tightened significantly after Mali secured a surprise 82–73 victory over medal contenders Spain. As a result, all four teams in Group A sit level with three points apiece, setting up a decisive conclusion to the group stage.
The final round of group matches takes place on Monday, where Germany will face Mali. Only the top team from each preliminary group advances directly to the quarterfinals, while the second- and third-place finishers advance to a qualification playoff round. The fourth-place team is eliminated from the tournament.
Match Schedule and Next Steps
Germany meets Mali on Monday in their preliminary-round fixture, with tip-off scheduled for 17:50 local venue time.
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