Group C & D - Classy France to set the standard in Ankara

ANKARA (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women) - If Group C of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament Women is decidedly unpredictable, the one thing Croatia, Mozambique and Korea can at least rely on is the overwhelming probability of having to face a powerful French team in the quarter-finals should they finish second.
 
For while the Olympic history books aren't exactly a page turner as far as France is concerned, it's difficult to look past Pierre Vincent and his EuroBasket Women bronze medallists to top Group D.
 
If Canada or Mali does manage to topple them, it would represent a major surprise. It's far from impossible but one glance at the players omitted from the French roster gives an indication of their first class quality.
 
As long as the French have the right attitude, their star laden frontcourt including Isabelle Yacoubou, Sandrine Gruda and Emmeline Ndongue should get the job done.
 
Nevertheless, Mali and Canada is an absolute treat for the first game in Group D since so much will ride on this game. Both 2010 FIBA World Championship participants will sniff a real opportunity if they grab a quarter-final match-up against one of the Group C teams.
 
Exactly who will finish top of Group C remains the burning question. Croatia is probably the slight favourite if they shoot the ball well. They also have added depth to call upon with veteran playmaker Andja Jelavic back on board while the versatile and irrepressible Ana Lelas remains a real warrior on the wing and inside.
 
Korea meanwhile made the quarter-finals of the World Championship in the Czech Republic and consequently have by far the best pedigree of the trio. However, they simply must rebound with more gusto than they did two years ago if they want to compete against Croatia.
 
As for Mozambique, it looks like it could be tough but tournaments are sometimes rife with surprises.
 
Indeed Croatia, who they face in the first game on Monday, are living proof of this dynamic having attained their wonderfully surprising fifth place finish at EuroBasket Women last summer.
 
FIBA