Argentina – France (3.15 odds – 1.38 odds, betsafe).
Probably no one expected to see these teams in one of the championship semifinals. Given the circumstances, Serbia and the USA had a chance to meet in the semifinals, and all eyes were on these teams. However, both France and Argentina managed to silence the critics and prove their worth. Unlike France, the Argentine team dominated the entire game against Serbia and did not give the slightest chance to think about victory. Meanwhile, the French team had a 7-point deficit in the 4th quarter but managed a 22-5 run and won the game by 10 points.
What distinguishes both teams?
The Argentinians, as is typical for South American teams, play fast basketball and attack whenever a good opportunity arises. Unlike other teams from this region, Argentina has much more talent in this team, as most of the players represent strong European clubs, and others are trying to break into the NBA. The players' mutual connection is also incredible, and it would be very difficult not to like this team.
A large part of the team's success depends on the Campazzo and Scola duo, which also troubled the Serbian team. Campazzo, who scored 18 points and 12 assists in that match, was simply incredible – from behind-the-back passes from the three-point line to a player under the basket to accurate three-point salvos. Meanwhile, Scola used his veteran status to provoke fouls and finish attacks by receiving excellent passes in the paint. Watching Argentina, it seems they have nothing to lose and play for their enjoyment, which can indeed be a positive thing at this stage, considering the usual pressure on players.
On the other side, the French team, which, as every year, stands out for its athleticism and physical attributes. Although many underestimated this team before the championship, this year's French team is one of the strongest ever assembled by this country, featuring both famous NBA players and the best players representing European clubs. The E. Fournier and R. Gobert tandem in this championship is simply unstoppable and will undoubtedly have advantages over the Argentine team in the paint.
We cannot fail to mention N. De Colo's importance in this French team – in 2 consecutive matches in the fourth quarter, De Colo takes responsibility and manages to make free throws and successfully finish attacks. With Fournier, De Colo, and Gobert working perfectly, the involvement of any other player in the game would only make the opponents' task more difficult. It can be said that this team has not yet revealed its full potential and is playing better and better as it progresses.
Teams' mutual history
In international tournaments, including friendly matches, these teams have played against each other 6 times, and the French team celebrated victory 4 times. The most memorable victory was undoubtedly at the 2012 Olympic Games when the French team won 71-64.
Prediction
The French team is considered a clear favorite in this semifinal, as the odds for victory are just 1.38 with a -6 point advantage and 1.9 odds. Much will depend on which team handles the pressure better and starts the game stronger. Stylistically, France has excellent defenders and athletic players in all positions, so it will be much more difficult for the Argentinians to outrun this team as they did with Serbia. It is hard to imagine who could even slightly slow down R. Gobert under the basket, as both M. Delia and L. Scola are not the best defenders, and Gobert has shown beastly form in the last two games. We will likely see a tough match where the French will have prepared answers for this Argentine team. The Europeans should prove their superiority and advance to the final, winning by more than 6 points, so we suggest a -6 French team handicap with 1.9 odds.
