Spain clearly overcame Australia in the quarterfinals (66-89), and its campaign in this tournament has only one blemish: the defeat to Mali. The reality, however, is that Spain has emerged as one of the teams capable of lifting the trophy. Standing in its way will be the overwhelming favorite, which is seeking its fifth consecutive World Cup.
The Americans arrive unbeaten after crushing Hungary in the quarterfinals, winning 108-56. In the group stage, Italy came close to springing an upset, but the United States responded in time to claim victory. The team also boasts Caitlin Clark, who is expected to become the face of the WNBA, as well as Breanna Stewart and Paige Buckers, all global stars of the sport.
THE FIGHT AGAINST THE IMPOSSIBLE
Spain's record against the United States is heavily lopsided because the Spanish national team has never beaten the Americans. However, the fact that this World Cup marks a generational change in the United States, with neither Kelsey Plum nor A'ja Wilson—two of the WNBA's best players—involved, offers Spain something to hold on to as it seeks to beat them for the first time.
The last meeting with Team USA came at the World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico, where the Americans won 70-84. The previous encounter with something truly at stake took place in Rio in 2016, when the United States routed Spain 72-101, a game in which captain Alba Torrens was on the court.
This new and highly talented generation of Spanish players came close to defeating the Americans at the U19 World Cup (66-69). The roster included Iyana Martín, Awa Fam, Buenavida and Alicia Flórez. The winner of this game will face France or Germany in the final, after they play the other semifinal at 4:30 p.m.
