The anticipation is at its peak as the women's division at the 2024 IWBF Asia Oceania Championships enters the semifinal stage, featuring – China, Thailand, Australia, and Japan – in the top four.
Thailand's commanding performance against Cambodia, securing a resounding 63-35 victory, crowned them as leaders in Pool B and ensured their progress into the semifinals. This achievement positions them alongside China, Australia, and Japan from Pool A.
In the upcoming semifinal clashes, Thailand, as the leaders of Pool B, will face the unbeaten Paralympic silver medallists, China, who maintained a flawless record in Pool A. Meanwhile, the clash between Japan and Australia, finishing 2nd and 3rd in Pool A, marks their third encounter in the competition. With Japan clinching victories in the previous two matchups, the semifinal promises a fierce battle.
As the competition intensifies, these women's teams are not just chasing championship glory but also eyeing the coveted ticket to the Paralympic Games in Paris. The significance of being in the top four is monumental, offering teams the chance to either compete in the 2024 IWBF Women's Repechage or secure the one direct ticket to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. With Japan hosting the Repechage, the remaining three teams are guaranteed an opportunity to advance further.
In the other women's games of the day, the AOZ women showcased their improvements by conquering Laos for the second time, securing a 38-25 victory. This triumph ensures their place in the 5-6th placing game, adding another layer of excitement to their journey. Meanwhile, Laos prepares for a competitive 7th-8th game against the Philippines. The day witnessed intense down-to-the-wire drama as the Philippines managed to halt India's hopes for a first win in the final moments, clinching a nail-biting 23-22 victory. With this result, India concludes its journey at 9th place, setting the stage for the Philippines in the battle for 7th/8th place tomorrow.
The semifinals are set to deliver spectacular basketball moments, shaping the journey to Paris for these elite teams. Brace yourselves for the unfolding drama and triumphs at the 2024 IWBF Asia Oceania Championships!
Day 8 Schedule – Friday 19 January
Court 1
- 10:30 – Women Semi-final 1 | CHN vs THA
- 12:30 – Women Semi-final 2 | JPN vs AUS
- 14:30 – Men Semi-final 1 | IRI vs JPN
- 16:30 – Men Semi-final 2 | AUS vs KOR
- 18:30 - Men 5-8 | THA vs AFG
Court 2
- 11:00 – Women 7-8 | LAO vs PHI
- 13:00 – Women 5-6 | CAM vs AOZ
- 15:00 – Men 9-11 | UAE vs NZL
- 17:00 – Men 5-8 | CHN vs KSA
Catch all the action on the IWBF YouTube Channel and visit the event page for the schedule, results, and statistics.
Photo Credits – X-1 /IWBF
