Italy, France, Hungary and Latvia into Semis and bound for U17 Women's World Cup

BOURGES (FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2017) - A dramatic day at the FIBA U16 Women's European Championship saw Semi-Finals set and spots taken for the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2018.

Latvia and Italy wrote the headlines as the former made history by reaching the last four of the competition for the first time. They inflicted a first loss on Germany by coming back to register a landmark and absorbing 62-58 success. Laura Meldere had a great night with 20 points and 9 boards.

Italy ended the reign of defending champions Spain with a thrilling 50-49 win.

It was founded on 19 points from Ilaria Panzera and 23 rebounds from Caterina Gilli, with Spain missing out on a top four finish for only the third time in 16 years.

Hungary had an exciting game with Russia and came out on top 62-56 thanks mainly to 17 points and 10 rebounds from Reka Dombai - as well as some excellent play by Nora Wentzel.

France had a slow opening against Poland but once they arose from their early slumber they proved unstoppable as they rode to a 76-42 triumph. Iliana Rupert stood out with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks.

There was also a mixture of joy and relief for Turkey, Czech Republic, Croatia and Serbia who all secured Division A basketball for 2018.

It means Netherlands, Belarus, Romania and Lithuania will fight it out on the last two days for the one remaining berth in the top tier. Two of those nations will be relegated if they lose on Friday.

Friday's games
Semi-Finals
Italy vs France
Hungary vs Latvia

Classification 5-8
Spain v Poland
Russia v Germany

Classification 9-12
Turkey v Czech Republic
Croatia v Serbia

Classification 13-16
Netherlands v Romania
Belarus v Lithuania

You can also follow how the day's action unfolded by reflecting on our Live Updates.

Check out full game replays on YouTube.com/FIBA. 

FIBA