On July 30, 2024, at 23:15 CEST, the Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Paris Olympics will feature a compelling clash between hosts France and Japan. This pivotal Group B match will be a significant test for both teams, following their contrasting starts in the tournament.
Japan vs France Current Standings and Historical Context
France enters this game with a solid position, having secured two points from their opening win against Brazil. Japan, on the other hand, has been struggling, sitting at the bottom of the group with just one point. This encounter marks the first competitive meeting between these two nations since their memorable semi-final duel at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Japan’s opening match was a tough one, as they fell to Germany with a scoreline of 97-77. Despite a commendable performance by Rui Hachimura, who notched up 20 points and 10 rebounds, Japan’s shooting woes—41% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc—left them trailing. This defeat adds to their current streak of four consecutive losses.
France, by contrast, started their campaign on a positive note. They overcame Brazil 78-66, demonstrating resilience by winning the second and third quarters after initially falling behind. Vincent Collet’s squad, buoyed by strong performances from Victor Wembanyama and Nicolas Batum, who each scored 19 points, ended a previous three-game losing streak and solidified their status as serious contenders.
Japan vs France Betting Odds and Predictions
Best Betting Odds
- France to win: 1.03
- Japan to win: 16.00
The odds reflect France’s dominant position in the group and their favorable form. According to Jitabet, France has a 78% probability of winning, while Japan’s chances stand at 20.3%.
Japan vs France Prediction
We predict that the match will see over 160 points scored. Both teams have demonstrated their offensive prowess, with France scoring over 75 points in their opening match and Japan averaging 77 points per game in their recent fixtures. The high-scoring nature of both teams and their recent performances suggest a thrilling, high-scoring encounter.
Place your bets at JITABET, and JITAWIN, they offer really good odds, play and win big!
Recent Form and Key Stats
Japan’s Recent Performances
- 27 July 2024: Lost 97-77 to Germany
- 22 July 2024: Lost 119-100 to Serbia
- 7 July 2024: Win 88-80 to Republic of Korea
Japan’s recent matches have consistently surpassed the 160-point mark, showcasing their offensive capabilities but also their defensive vulnerabilities.
France’s Recent Performances
- 27 July 2024: Victory 78-66 against Brazil
- 22 July 2024: Lost 82-83 against Australia
- 20 July 2024: Lost 73-85 against Canada
France has exhibited strong offensive performances, scoring over 70 points in four of their last five games, and will look to build on this form.
Japan vs France Head-to-Head Record
The historical record between Japan and France is limited, with their only prior competitive encounter occurring during the 1960 Rome Olympics. This adds an element of intrigue and anticipation as both teams prepare to renew their rivalry.
Key Points to Consider
- Japan’s last three matches have all exceeded 160 points.
- France has managed to score over 70 points in four of their last five games.
- Japan has allowed at least 80 points in each of their last eight games.
- Both teams have shown significant scoring capabilities in their opening fixtures.
Conclusion
This Olympic matchup promises to be a high-octane affair, with both teams bringing dynamic offensive strategies to the court. France’s home advantage and recent form make them the favorites, but Japan’s need for a strong showing could lead to a fiercely contested game.
Thrilling Overtime Victory: France Edges Japan in Nail-Biting Olympic Clash
In a pulsating showdown at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, France emerged victorious against Japan with a 94-90 win in overtime, marking a crucial step in their Olympic journey. The Group B match, held on July 30, 2024, captivated spectators with its relentless intensity and dramatic finale.
A Battle of Equals
The encounter between France and Japan was a testament to the unpredictable nature of Olympic basketball. From the tip-off, both teams exhibited extraordinary skill and determination, remaining neck-and-neck throughout the four quarters. Japan, embodying their motto to “shock the world,” continually challenged the French team, keeping them on their toes until the very last moment.
Key Moments of the Match
As the clock ticked down to the final seconds of regulation time, French point guard Matthew Strazel emerged as the hero. With Japan leading, Strazel’s four points brought the game to an 84-84 tie, forcing the match into overtime. His clutch performance was crucial in extending France’s chance for victory.
“Shoot-out to Matthew, he saved us, we owe him one today,” said Isaia Cordinier, French shooting guard, acknowledging Strazel’s pivotal contribution.
Dominance in Overtime
In the overtime period, Victor Wembanyama, France’s power forward, played a decisive role. Scoring five points, including a critical three-pointer, Wembanyama helped cement France’s lead. His aggressive play set the tone for the overtime, ensuring that France struck first and maintained their momentum until the final buzzer.
“They were playing like underdogs and we were waiting for them to punch a little bit too much. I wanted to make a point and punch first in overtime and I think it worked,” Wembanyama remarked post-game.
Japan’s Tenacity and Key Players
Despite the loss, Japan’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. Point guard Yuki Kawamura was a standout player, scoring 29 points—the highest in the game. However, his impressive individual effort wasn’t enough to secure a win.
“But we lost the game,” Kawamura reflected. “I have to control everything, but I couldn’t do it – I have to get better.”
Japan faced additional challenges with forward Rui Hachimura ejected for unsportsmanlike fouls and center Josh Hawkinson leaving the game due to a left ankle injury. Despite these setbacks, the team’s resilience was evident as they continued to fight fiercely.
“There are no moral victories … but we showed that even in an extreme rogue environment, with 27,000 people all chanting in French going crazy, that we can fight with some of the best countries in the world, and I’m proud of the guys and the way they fought ’till the end,” said Hawkinson.
Path Forward
With this win, France leads Group B with two wins and four points. They are set to face second-placed Germany on Friday. Japan, currently in third place, retains a chance to advance if they secure a significant victory against Brazil. The top eight teams from the combined ranking will qualify for the quarter-finals, making every game crucial.
