PRAGUE, July 19 (Xinhua) -- The title race at the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup intensified on Friday, as Australia, Canada, Spain, and the United States all secured their spots in the semifinals after hard-fought quarterfinal victories.
Australia edged Hungary 82-76 after overtime in a thrilling contest. The game was tied 69-69 at the end of regulation, but Australia pulled ahead in the extra period. Bonnie Deas led Australia with 17 points, while Manuela Puoch contributed 12 points and nine rebounds. For Hungary, Dora Toman and Reka Toman both scored 18 points.
The United States remained unbeaten in the tournament, winning 70-65 over France. Saniyah Hall was the top scorer for the Americans with 26 points, and Sienna Betts added 14 points and 11 rebounds. Nell Angloma led France with 20 points and six rebounds, but the U.S. defense proved decisive down the stretch.
In the other quarterfinals, Canada defeated Japan 85-65, while Spain held off Portugal 68-58.
In the classification round for 9th-16th places, China narrowly edged the hosts, the Czech Republic, with an 80-79 overtime win. Guard Kejia Ran starred for China with 25 points, 16 rebounds and four assists, while Yuqian Li contributed 19 points.
The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday evening, with Australia facing Canada and the United States taking on Spain. ■
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