Author: Monojit Mandal
Serbia – Canada – 95:86
Serbia dominated from the start, securing a 15-point lead in the first quarter. Although Canada reduced the gap to 52-39 at half-time, Serbia increased their lead strongly in the third quarter. The game, however, was characterized by difficult tackles and challenges, with both teams committing a total of 23 fouls. Serbia, however, made better use of their free throw opportunities, hitting 22 of 26 attempts, while Canada hit 16 of 23.
The Serbian team, led by the excellent Bogdan Bogdanovic, showed their exceptional skill on the court today, with Bogdanovic scoring a game-high 23 points to help his team win the match. Nikola Milutinov also contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Ognjen Dobric completed Serbia’s scoring with 16 points. RJ Barrett led Canada with 23 points, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 15 points and 9 assists.
USA – Germany – 111:113
In the other semi-final, the USA and Germany met. The first two quarters were an even fight, but in the middle of the third period the Germans took a +10 lead. The Americans managed to reduce the gap to a minimum, but lost – 111:113
USA captain Kevin Durant scored 33 points and 11 rebounds. Jalen Green scored 22 points and Damian Lillard scored 19. Franz Wagner led the Germans with 28 points and 7 rebounds; Moritz Wagner added 23 points and Johannes Voigtmann 16.
Playing as an independent team (not part of Yugoslavia), Serbia reached the final in 2014, losing to the USA 92-129. Germany’s best achievement at the World Championships was bronze in 2002.
One thing is certain: on September 10, one of the teams will become world champions for the first time.