United States set up World Cup final rematch with France

The United States have joined France in the Women’s World Cup final, setting up a repeat of the Paris Olympic final. The Americans will also play in their fifth successive World Cup final, having won the previous four editions.

Spain made the stronger start and opened an eight-point lead early in the semi-final, but the United States responded with an 11-0 run. They led by three points after the first quarter and held the same margin at half-time. Spain continued to stay within reach before Maria Conde’s long-range shooting briefly put her team back in front during the third quarter.

The Americans answered with another 7-0 surge, although Spain recovered to level the game entering the final period. An 8-0 American run in the closing quarter then created the decisive separation, sending the United States through with a 76-66 victory.

Breanna Stewart led the winners with 16 points and six rebounds, while Kahleah Copper added 13 and Jackie Young scored 12. Conde and Iyana Martin each scored 17 for Spain. France now face the reigning Olympic champions in a final that renews the matchup from Paris, where the two teams also contested the gold medal.