Germany Crush South Korea to Storm Into FIBA Women’s World Cup Quarterfinals

Germany stormed into the FIBA Women’s World Cup quarterfinals with a commanding 94–56 victory over South Korea on Tuesday, September 8, earning a much-needed boost in front of a passionate home crowd at the Berlin Arena.

Germany captain Marie Gülich led the way with 19 points and five rebounds as the hosts produced a dominant performance. The home fans celebrated almost every German basket, particularly during a first half in which the hosts established a 17-point halftime advantage.

The victory continues Germany’s impressive recovery after a difficult start to the tournament. The hosts opened their campaign with a heavy 30-point defeat to Spain, but responded strongly with wins over Japan and Mali before comfortably overcoming South Korea.

Germany will now face European champions Belgium in the quarterfinals, setting up a major European clash as the hosts look to continue their unexpected run on home soil.

Elsewhere, Hungary defeated Japan 84–63 to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in 40 years. Réka Lelik was Hungary’s standout performer with 23 points and eight rebounds, while Virág Takács-Kiss contributed 17 points and eight rebounds.

Hungary’s shooting from long range proved decisive, with the team converting 11 of 25 three-point attempts. Japan, meanwhile, struggled from beyond the arc after setting a tournament record with 20 three-pointers in a World Cup game on Friday.

The game was also overshadowed by an injury to Japan shooting guard Saki Hayashi, who appeared to suffer a serious arm injury following an awkward fall. She received immediate medical attention and was later helped from the court as fans applauded.

Hungary will next face four-time defending champions USA in Thursday’s quarterfinals. Spain and France will meet the winners of the Italy–Australia and China–Puerto Rico playoffs for the remaining quarterfinal places.