Spain Outlasts Angola 89-81 in Hard-Fought FOQT Opener

Spain Outlasts Angola 89-81 in Hard-Fought FOQT Opener

In their opening game of the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifiers Tournament, Spain managed to fend off a resilient Angola squad, securing an 89-81 victory. Despite a strong performance from Angola, Spain's balanced attack and key plays down the stretch ensured their triumph.

Spain's largest lead reached 12 points, while Angola's most significant lead was a mere 2 points early in the game. Spain's most considerable scoring run was a 12-0 burst, whereas Angola managed a 6-0 run. Spain led most of the game, holding the advantage for 38:30 minutes. Angola's only lead lasted a brief 43 seconds at the start, as a three-pointer by Sergio Llull quickly put Spain ahead 3-2. From that point, Spain maintained control.

The game was tightly contested, with Spain keeping Angola at bay despite several comeback attempts. In the first quarter, Angola managed to lead briefly, but a floater from Dario Brizuela ended their momentum. Midway through the second quarter, Spain extended their lead to 28-19 with a layup by Santiago Aldama. Angola fought back to narrow the gap to one point (44-43) with 18 seconds left in the half, but Jaime Pradilla's three-pointer extended Spain's lead to 46-43 at halftime.

Spain opened the third quarter on a 10-3 run, stretching their lead to 56-46. Although Angola reduced the gap to four points (63-59) with Silvio De Sousa's free throw, Spain responded with a three-pointer from Dario Brizuela, extending their lead to 68-59.

In the fourth quarter, Angola continued to battle, with notable performances from Jilson Bango and Silvio De Sousa. However, crucial three-pointers from Jaime Pradilla and Rudy Fernandez kept Spain ahead. Spanish-Nigerian, Usman Garuba's free throw extended Spain's lead to 83-74, and despite a late surge from Angola, Spain secured an 89-81 victory.

Angola outperformed Spain on the boards, securing 40 rebounds compared to Spain's 33, which helped them score 20 second-chance points against Spain's 8. However, Spain's playmaking was superior, recording 24 assists to Angola's 16. Despite Angola's strong rebounding and a commendable effort from their bench, scoring 30 points to Spain's 27, Spain's consistency and key plays proved decisive.

Angola's next game is against Lebanon on Thursday, July 4th. They must regroup and refine their strategy to bounce back in the tournament and keep their Olympic hopes alive.

Watch the Angola vs Spain Game Highlights Below

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[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]