The six must watch games of the #FIBAU19 Group Phase

MADRID (Spain) - The Group Phase of the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2023 in Madrid is destined to throw up some majorly entertaining and intriguing games.

With fixtures in the tournament schedule for Saturday 15, Sunday 16 and Tuesday 18 of July, every matchup will mean something as the lineup for the Round of 16 takes shape. 

But which games are the ones to put at the top of your watch-list? Certainly, Group A might be labelled the inevitable 'Group of Death' with hosts Spain, France and Australia all drawn into that pool, meaning it is where a lot of the early focus will be.

Group C: Japan v Italy - Saturday 15 July (11:45 local time)

This is not just the first game of the competition which is always a landmark game in itself, this could have big consequences for Group C. With reigning champions Lithuania likely to be favored to take top spot, or at least on paper, this could be a massive game in trying to push for second place. Japan will bring their trademark style which combines a relentless work ethic with quick slashes to the basket and potentially devastating three-point shooting - led by Chinami Yokoyama. Meanwhile Italy have such a well-balanced team and approach. most likely led by standout star, Matilde Villa. 

Group D: Canada v China - Saturday 15 July (14:45 local time)

This could be a fascinating clash as the FIBA U18 Americas silver medalists go head-to-head with the FIBA U18 Asia silver medalists. Both nations will be eager to make a deep run and this early look of two teams that will be targeting the Quarter-Finals will be very interesting. Toby Fournier excelled at #FIBAU17 last year and should provide a one-two punch with T'Yana Todd, while China will most probably look to Li Wenexia for inspiration.

Group B: Mali v USA - Saturday 15 July (18:15 local time)

 

Will the USA be dominant from the outset as they tip-off the defense of their crown and what will Mali look like as African U18 champions? Especially considering that historic run to the Semi-Finals at the last edition. Not having a phenomenal baller like Sika Kone means a repeat is wholly unlikely, but nevertheless, there will be a lot of intrigue as to their potential and especially being thrown into the fire early against the favorites.  Who will set the early tempo for the USA? Maybe Jadyn Donovan or Kiki Rice?

Group A: Spain v Australia - Saturday 15 July (20:15 local time)

It's always a huge night for any host nation when they step out to play their first game of a prestigious tournament and Spain have a difficult first opponent in the FIBA U18 Asia champions Australia. But what an absolute blockbuster this could be and a great showcase for the competition on opening night. Awa Fam and Ariadna Termis Casas may be tasked with trying to stop the Gems' dangerous duo in the paint, Isla Juffermans and Nyadiew Puoch.

Group A: France v Spain - Sunday 16 July (20:15 local time)

As if their potential opening night nerves and a tough test against the Gems was not enough, the second outing for Spain will be a massive derby clash against neighbors France. Last year in the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship, the Spanish side blasted away their close rivals in the Semi-Finals but surely they will be out to extract revenge - and, what better way to get it than upset the hosts on their home court? Guard Elena Buenavida may look to run the show for Spain and she could be the key player in this one.

Group A: Australia v France - Tuesday 18 July (20:45 local time)

Another big matchup in the 'Group of Death' this one looks so well balanced on paper at least. France will have to have the likes of forward Anaelle Dutat putitng in a big physical display on the glass to stop Australia getting the upper hand inside. Meanwhile for a scoring and creative touch from the Gems - look out for Isobel Borlase who made the All-Star Five Team at U18 Asia last year.

FIBA