2023 World Cup: Brazil clinch key win over Cote d'Ivoire, advance into Second Round

Yago Dos Santos

Brazil - Cote d'Ivoire 89-77

Brazil will play in the Second Round of the 2023 World Cup. The Latin American powerhouse knocked down Cote d'Ivoire to clinch the second position in Group G. Yago Matheus (175-PG-1999) came up with 24 points and 12 assists for the winners.
Cote d'Ivoire poured in 25 points in the first period to eke out a 2-point lead. Brazil however stepped on the gas in the second frame. They drained 27 points in the period to secure a 50-46 halftime advantage. Brazil maintained the lead throughout intense foul-plagued third period. The Latin American team snatched a 5-point lead heading into the fourth frame. Brazil opened a 9-point lead but Cote d'Ivoire responded with six quick points to pull within three 71-74 midway through the final term. Bruno Caboclo (206-PF-1995) and Yago Matheus came up with timely five points to boost the lead. Georginho Paula (197-PG-1996) followed with a three-pointer and Brazil got some breathing room to march to the victory. Tim Soares (211-C-1997, college: Master's) notched 15 points for Brazil. Cedric Bah (199-PF-1994) had 13 points, while Souleyman Diabate (183-PG-1987, agency: Interperformances) produced 12 points in the defeat.

Tags : YAGO MATHEUS, WORLD CUP BASKETBALL, BRAZILIAN NATIONAL TEAM