2023 World Cup: Late run helps France tame Cote d'Ivoire

Isaia Cordinier

Cote d'Ivoire - France 77-87

France outlasted Cote d'Ivoire to victoriously wrap up their 2023 World Cup campaign. Les Bleus closed the game on a 13-2 rally to snatch a tough win in Classification Round Group P. Isaia Cordinier (196-G/F-1996) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
The teams traded baskets throughout a seesaw first half. France grabbed a 25-21 lead after ten minutes. But Cote d'Ivoire used a 20-15 run in the second frame to eke out a 41-40 halftime advantage. France were back in the lead after three quarters enjoying a 62-61 advantage. Cote d'Ivoire grabbed a 75-74 lead with three minutes left following an Assemian Moulare bucket. But les Bleus responded with a 13-2 run in the final three minutes to ice the victory. Rudy Gobert (216-C-1992) tallied 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Sylvain Francisco (185-PG-1997) had 15 points and 7 assists for France. Nisre Zouzoua (188-G-1996, college: Nevada) responded with 18 points for Cote d'Ivoire. Souleyman Diabate (183-PG-1987, agency: Interperformances) and Vafessa Fofana (198-F/G-1992) banked in 13 points each.

Tags : ISAIA CORDINIER, WORLD CUP BASKETBALL, FRENCH NATIONAL TEAM