Belgium showed a marked improvement from their loss to Germany, but they couldn't match the powerhouse USA, who secured an 87-74 victory in the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille on Thursday, August 1.
Sabrina Ionescu of Team USA nailed a clutch three-pointer to secure the game, followed by a "shhhh" gesture towards the predominantly pro-Belgian crowd in the town near the French-Belgian border, concluding a physical, high-scoring match in Group C.
Breanna Stewart was the standout performer for the USA in this match, scoring 26 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and blocking three shots. Despite the less frequent opportunities for the US players to compete together compared to their opponents, Stewart managed to establish good chemistry in transition with Jewell Loyd and Sabrina Ionescu, both of whom have also played alongside Stewart in the WNBA.
The USA dominated the rebounding battle, 48-28, which enabled the American team to score significantly more points in the paint, 42-28, as well as more second-chance points, 13-9.
"We aimed to dominate inside the key. Knowing our size advantage, we focused on securing multiple possessions while limiting theirs," Stewart told NBC post-game.
A'ja Wilson scored 23 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, achieving her second double-double in consecutive Olympic games.
Belgium rediscovered its shooting prowess, which had been absent in their loss to Germany. Emma Meesseman scored 24 points, Julie Vanloo contributed 11 points, and Antonia Delaere added 16 points, including four three-pointers.
Belgium's defeat against the United States leaves them with a 0-2 record in Group C. Earlier on Thursday, Germany secured a victory over Japan, ensuring both the American and German teams advance to the quarterfinals of the Olympic tournament. Two third-place teams will also qualify for the quarterfinals. Belgium now faces a must-win situation against Japan on Sunday and will rely on a favorable score differential to advance.
The United States will encounter Germany on Sunday in the final match of Group C. Although both teams have secured qualification, this match will serve as a significant test for both sides.