France overpowers China to reach FIBA Women's World Cup semifinals

France ended China's FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup campaign with a commanding 90-61 quarterfinal victory on Thursday, setting up a semifinal against either host Germany or Belgium.

China stayed within striking distance during a competitive opening quarter, with Han Xu and Yang Shuyu carrying much of the scoring load, but France seized control in the second period and steadily pulled away.

Zhang Ziyu (top) of China vies with Aminata Gueye of France during the quarterfinal match at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 in Berlin, Germany, Sept. 10, 2026. (Xinhua/He Canling)

An 11-0 run gave France the first double-digit lead of the game and swung the momentum firmly in its favor. China struggled to keep its opponent off the offensive glass and repeatedly surrendered possession through turnovers, allowing France to establish a 48-31 halftime lead.

China needed a strong response after the break but was unable to produce a sustained run to cut the deficit. Zhang Ziyu contributed seven points and eight rebounds, but also committed seven turnovers in 18 minutes.

Han led China with 21 points and nine rebounds on 8-of-13 shooting, while Yang added 19 points and five assists. The pair accounted for 40 of China's 61 points, with no other Chinese player reaching double figures.

France benefited from a more balanced offensive display. Marine Johannes and Janelle Salaun scored 15 points apiece, with Johannes also handing out seven assists. Gabby Williams collected 14 points and seven rebounds, while Leila Lacan added 12 points.

China's difficulties in protecting the ball and finishing defensive possessions proved costly. France grabbed 19 offensive rebounds, while China committed 20 turnovers, helping the French attempt 79 field goals compared with China's 50.

France remained firmly in control throughout the second half and comfortably closed out the victory to secure a place in the last four.

The defeat brought China's tournament to an end with three wins and two losses. China had reached the quarterfinals by edging Puerto Rico 75-72 in Wednesday's qualification round.

France will face the winner of Thursday's quarterfinal between Germany and Belgium in Saturday's semifinal.