The United States edged Italy 55-52 in a tense Fiba Women's World Cup match, clinching a quarter-final berth despite poor shooting, with Jackie Young leading a strong fourth quarter.
Key facts
- The US beat Italy 55-52 to move to 2-0 and clinch a quarter-final berth.
- Caitlin Clark shot 0-6 from the field.
- Italy's Cecilia Zandalasini claimed she was poked in the eye.
- Jackie Young had a big fourth quarter and Breanna Stewart made her only basket to put the US ahead for good.
The United States survived a nervy contest to beat Italy 55-52 in the Fiba Women’s World Cup on Sunday, according to the Guardian. The win moved the Americans to 2-0 and secured their place in the quarter-finals.
It was a tight, low-scoring affair throughout. The US led only 42-39 after three quarters and fell behind by two points on three separate occasions during the fourth quarter, underlining how much they struggled against a determined Italy side.
Jackie Young proved decisive in the closing stages. Breanna Stewart’s jumper, assisted by Young, gave the Americans a 51-50 lead with 3:20 to play, and Young followed it up with a floater on the next possession. Stewart’s basket was her only make of the game.
Chelsea Gray added an important cushion with a pull-up shot with 1:07 remaining, but Italy responded quickly with a two-pointer to cut the margin to 55-52. Gray missed on the next US trip, but Young grabbed the rebound to help her team run down the clock and preserve the win.
The night was defined by poor US shooting, with Caitlin Clark going 0-6 from the field. The game also carried an edge off the court, as Italy’s Cecilia Zandalasini claimed she had been poked in the eye during the contest, according to the Guardian.
Why it matters
The narrow win keeps the United States on track at the Fiba Women's World Cup while exposing shooting struggles that stronger opponents could punish in the knockout rounds. The eye-poke claim adds a controversial edge to an already tense encounter as the tournament heats up.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score between the US and Italy?
The United States beat Italy 55-52, according to the Guardian.
How did Caitlin Clark perform in the game?
Caitlin Clark shot 0-6 from the field in the match.
Did the US reach the quarter-finals?
Yes. The win improved the US to 2-0 and clinched a quarter-final berth.