The France vs. Belgium Women’s Olympics Basketball matchup will tip off at 3:00 p.m. ET on Friday afternoon. Will Belgium pull off the upset? Or is there a better bet on the board?
France vs. Belgium Betting Odds
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, France is a 4.5-point favorite to knock off Belgium. As for the total, the number currently sits at 143.5. The over has odds of -115, while the under is -105.
Team Overviews
Team France Overview: France is a perennial contender in international women’s basketball, known for their disciplined play and strong defensive schemes. They bring a mix of experience and youth, with players like Marine Johannès providing scoring and creativity, and Sandrine Gruda offering veteran leadership and an interior presence. France’s strength lies in their ability to execute set plays, their physical defense, and their versatility in both the frontcourt and backcourt.
Team Belgium Overview: Belgium has been rising in the ranks of international women’s basketball, earning respect for their dynamic and fast-paced style of play. The “Belgian Cats” feature a core of talented players like Emma Meesseman, who is a star on both ends of the floor, capable of scoring, rebounding, and facilitating. Julie Allemand also plays a crucial role as the floor general, known for her playmaking and basketball IQ. Belgium’s success often hinges on their ability to spread the floor and capitalize on their shooting.
Key Matchups:
- Emma Meesseman vs. France’s Defense: Meesseman is a focal point for Belgium, and France will need to find ways to limit her impact. Whether by double-teaming or using different defensive looks, containing her is key to France’s game plan.
- Backcourt Duel: The battle between Marine Johannès and Julie Allemand will be crucial. Both guards are essential to their teams’ offensive flow and will be responsible for dictating the pace of the game.
Game Dynamics:
- Defense vs. Offense: France’s strength is their defense, which will be tested by Belgium’s efficient offense. France will aim to slow the game down, force turnovers, and limit Belgium’s transition opportunities.
- Three-Point Shooting: Belgium relies heavily on their outside shooting, so France’s ability to contest and close out on shooters will be critical. On the other hand, if Belgium gets hot from deep, they could control the game’s momentum.
- Inside Battle: France has the edge in interior defense, with experienced bigs like Sandrine Gruda. However, Belgium’s movement and spacing can open up the paint, so it will be a test of discipline for France.
France vs. Belgium Prediction:
This matchup could be one of the more intriguing games in the tournament. France has the experience and defensive discipline to grind out a win, but Belgium’s offensive firepower and the presence of Emma Meesseman make them a dangerous opponent. If Belgium can find their rhythm offensively, they have a real chance to pull off a victory, but France’s balanced approach and ability to execute in key moments might give them the slight edge.
France vs. Belgium Women’s Basketball Prediction: France +4.5
