HAMBURG (FIBA U17 World Championship) – After what was the highest defeat of Day 1 play, Egypt (67:99 vs. Serbia) tried to bounce back against an Argentia team that came up just short against the USA (70:82) in its opener.

The africans were desperatly looking for Ahmed Moustafa (9 points) to carry most of the offensive load, as the guard prospect filled the lane as often as he could, attempting to collapse the defense and create some space for his team mates.

But Argentina wasted no time to take the lead by knocking down 7-of-14 three pointers before halftime.

It could have been a much closer contest, were it not for Egypt missing way too many opportunities from the free-throw line (13-of-22 in the first half).

Argentina stuck to its game plan well, getting every player involved and patiently passing the ball to find open looks. Most of these quality shots went in, giving the Southern Americans a twenty points lead midway through the third quarter.

Both coaches benched many starters getting their respective reserves (Luciano Massarelli, 21 points) on court to gain some invaluable international experience.

Quotes

Hesham Aboserea, Egypt head coach: "We did all we could to stay in the game in the first half. After te intermission we lost our concentration and had no chance of coming back."

Enrique Tolcachier, Argentina head coach: "I am happy we played a good ball game, especially in the first quarter when we displayed good defensive effort. We were very comfortable going into the second half as we shot a high percentage from the three point line."


FIBA / JB