61-48 | Spain gets back on track against Canada with defense

A full stop in the preparations for the Paris Olympics. Spain returns from Charleroi with a defeat to the European champions and a win over the mighty Canada, but still with noticeable omissions. Good attacking play from players like Alba Torrens, Laura Gil and Maria Conde, as well as excellent defensive work from the entire team. The last stage of preparation will remain at the tournament in Segovia before the trip to the French lands.

The game started with a basket by the Canadian, but Spain responded with its outside line (Casas and Conde). Miguel Mendez’s techniques were used in defense against a team with a lot of physical strength. Nerea Hermosa came out in the first corner to counteract the centimeters, and the Vitorian had some good minutes. A few points and Spain’s advantage in the first quarter (13-7).

The second quarter followed the same pattern. Few points, many missed shots and a defense that outscored the offense. Maria Conde’s three made it 18-9, but Canada responded with Nirra Fields and Kayla Alexander to within one point (20-19). Miguel Mendez stopped the game to focus on defense again and prevent easy shots. The score was 27-23 at halftime.

The third quarter was the most productive quarter for Spain, with more players like Alba Torrens or Maria Araujo playing quality minutes and Leticia Romero in the position of the game’s direction. Canada was losing steam and Miguel Mendez left players like Maria Conde or Queralt Casas because the victory was already decided.