Mexico beat New Zealand to qualify for pre-Olympic playoff round

It will determine whether or not the Mexican national team will qualify for the pre-Olympic playoffs before Jordan.

The Mexican basketball team Won 108-100 New Zealand 2023 World Cup qualifiers should be in contention America Until the pre-Olympic playoffs.

In Manila, Philippines, Francisco 'Paco' Cruz He is the best goal scorer MexicoAlong with 27 points, four rebounds and five assists. Reuben Te Rangi New Zealand led the way with 32 units.

This was Mexico's first win in this World Cup. They lost their first three games in the group stage.

By falling in the first round, the Americans were eliminated from contention for the title, but now they are competing from 17 to 32 in the qualification stage, in which the country's aspirations to go to the basketball tournament are also at stake. At the Olympics Paris 2024.

Mexico was led by its captain Gabriel Girón in the first quarterHe had two triples and a total of eight points, putting his team up 31-22 at the end of the first quarter.

In the first period, the Americans dominated the paint and took advantage of their opponents' losses and turned them into baskets.

'Paco' Cruz He was the Mexican leader in the second period, in which the senior guard posted 11 points, nine of them by converting his first three long-range shots in the duel.

Also, the Mexicans were the owners of the painted area and had the support of their substitutes to take a 57-41 halftime lead.

cross He was the leader of the Mexican attack in the third round, scoring eight points and receiving support. Josh Ibarraand completed eight units.

With these players contributing and not giving up in the paint, Mexico reached the final quarter with a 78-68 win.

The Mexicans were given a scare in the final quarter by New Zealand's impressive performance of 32 points, including 13. Reuben Te RangiIt wasn't enough in the end and the Americans won 108-100.

Next match Mexico Before that it will be this Saturday JordanThe Americans are the last in the tournament and will determine whether or not they qualify for the pre-Olympic playoffs.

New Zealand will close participation in the World Cup against EgyptSame Saturday.