The United States and France have secured their places in the Women’s Basketball World Cup final after dominant performances in the semifinals. The Americans defeated Spain 76-66 in Berlin, while France beat Germany 86-64 to reach the decider for the first time in their history. The final will be a rematch of the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal match, which the United States won by a single point.

The U.S. team, the 11-time world champions, extended their winning streak at the tournament to 35 matches, dating back to a semifinal defeat by Russia in 2006. Spain, whose best result was reaching the 2014 final, levelled the score at 58-all in the third quarter before the Americans outscored their opponents by 10 in the final period. Breanna Stewart and Kahleah Copper led the charge with 16 and 13 points respectively. Stewart emphasized that the current match is a new opportunity, stating, 'That’s over, you know what I mean? We won that game and that game is over, and this is a completely new game tomorrow.'

France, led by U.S.-born star Gabby Williams, who scored 22 points and recorded five assists and four steals, advanced to the final for the first time. Williams described her mission as 'just to give it my all,' acknowledging the challenge of facing the American team. Marieme Badiane added that the French squad is determined to 'go for the ultimate prize.'

Germany, the host nation, reached the semifinals for the first time as a unified country after defeating European champions Belgium. Despite a close match, France maintained their lead with a 12-0 run in the final quarter to seal their place in the final. The Germans, however, stayed within striking distance, cutting the lead to nine in the final minutes.

The final between the U.S. and France will be a rematch of the 2024 Olympic final, where the Americans narrowly won. Spain and Germany have not provided any statements in response to their semifinal exits. The outcome of the final will determine the champion of the Women’s Basketball World Cup, with the U.S. heavily favored but facing a formidable French team. The tournament continues to showcase high-level competition and the growing global appeal of women’s basketball.