The FIBA World Cup semi-finals will take the spotlight this evening in Beijing a day before tomorrow's fifth and seventh place games. All four remaining teams came in as legitimate threats to lift the trophy, but many are still talking about a couple of sides that made early exits.
The final four will feature Argentina, France, Spain, and Australia – a line-up that left fans in the courtyard of the Chinese capital's Wukesong Arena watching the USA and Serbia tussle in the consolation bracket – reflecting on what went wrong for two of the pre-tournament favorites.
The Argentinians won the inaugural edition of this event in 1950, while the Spaniards claimed the title for the first time in 2006. The best French finish was third place five years ago, and the Aussies are making their last four debut, all ensuring a shake-up this weekend in the host nation's capital.
"We are keenly waiting for the final stage of the event and I firmly believe that it's going to be an exciting one," one Chinese basketball fan told CGTN.
Another local fan said, "We have seen some big upsets in the tournament and hoping to see more in the final four stage. It's been a fabulous tournament and we have really enjoyed it. Now we are looking forward to the remaining matches in Beijing."
The Chinese capital will serve as the hub of activity for the rest of the 2019 FIBA World Cup as the semi-finals and championship contest determine the winning team. Four squads remain but only one can lay claim to bragging rights as the world's basketball champion.
Australia's Jock Landale (C) in action against FIBA World Cup quarter final game against Czech Republic at Shanghai Oriental Sports Center, Shanghai, China, September 11, 2019. /VCG Photo
However, it was a disappointing China sojourn for a group of Serbian fans, who came all the way from the Balkan country to watch the World Cup.
"We have been here for the last 10 days and we were expecting a title-winning performance by our team. But we are now disappointed," said one Serbian fan.
Another fan rued the missed opportunity saying: "We really had a great side and we were hoping to win the tournament."
Interestingly, with both the reigning titleholders and returning runners-up already being knocked out of contention in the round of eight, those following the action, are readjusting their rooting interests.
Friday's semi-finals will feature Spain against Australia in the early game, before the clash between Argentina and France takes over the court for the nightcap.
(Cover photo via VCG)