Saitama, Japan (AB) – Asto Endor added 20 points and Christina Ovina added 15 points to give Spain a 76-66 victory over the Spanish women’s team on Sunday to advance to the quarterfinals of the Olympics.
Spain (3-0) came into the half with a six-point lead and scored the first nine points during a 16-2 attack early in the third period. At the start of the final quarter Canada was close to 62-56 using 9-2 lines, but could not close the gap due to two consecutive 3-pointers by Alpha Torrance to cool Canada.
The Spaniards, who won silver in Rio 2016, are guaranteed not to face the United States until at least the semifinals.
Now it remains to be seen whether Canada (1-2) will advance to the next stage. The Canadians, who had a chance to win the group by more than 10 points, arrived in Tokyo with the expectation of advancing to the medal round.
Eight teams are taking part in the knockout round, which starts on Wednesday. Winners of three teams and best runner-up first four seats. The second and second best third places in the field will complete the picture.
The draw will take place on Monday to determine the crosses.
Kia Nurse scored 14 points for the Canadians and Laticia Amiher finished with 10 points and six rebounds.
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