Germany against Latvia in the Fiba World Cup quarterfinal. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Germany moved on to the Fiba World Cup semifinals where juggernaut Team USA awaits.
The Germans held on for a heartstopping 81-79 win over Latvia, 81-79, on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena but there won’t be any more celebrations after tonight as they prepare for their biggest test yet against the United States on Friday.
“We’re going to enjoy this one tonight, first. then, watch film tomorrow and try to get ready for the semifinals,” said Germany team captain Dennis Schroder, who struggled with only nine points on 4-of-26 shooting from the field.
Unlike Germany, Team USA cruised into the semifinals after a 100-63 whipping of Italy on Tuesday.
Germany’s Franz and Moritz Wagner during a game against Latvia in the Fiba World Cup. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Johannes Thiemann, who finished with 10 points and seven rebounds, expects another grind-it-out game against Team USA, which is formidable but not invincible having lost to Lithuania, 110-106, on Sunday.
“USA is a tough team to beat but Lithuania showed heart [to win]. I think they’re beatable. It’s going to be for sure a tough matchup but we’re going to be ready,” said the 6-foot-9 forward.
Schroder is also looking forward to Germany’s showdown with the US and facing his former Lakers teammate Austin Reaves.
The semifinal game marks the second time in less than three weeks that Team USA and Germany meet.
In an exhibition game last August 21, the Americans rallied from 16 points down in the second half to beat the Germans in Abu Dhabi. Anthony Edwards led the US in that game with 34 points.