France (W) vs South Korea (W) Prediction 5 September 2026

The French women kicked off the tournament with a dominant blowout win over Hungary, 99-53. They relied on physical superiority, aggressive defensive pressing, and highly efficient shooting from both inside and beyond the arc. All these strengths were on full display. Les Bleues were especially impressive from three-point range, converting at a remarkable 62.5% clip. Their deep rotation, featuring top-level centers and forwards from EuroLeague and the WNBA, allowed them to control the boards - pulling down 38 rebounds - and establish overwhelming dominance in the paint. The star trio of Malonga, Johannes, and Williams combined for 51 points, each contributing 17. France played well within themselves, making it clear they are ready to challenge Team USA for the title.

South Korea also kicked off their tournament campaign with a win, outgunning Nigeria 99-81. The team plays an up-tempo, pass-oriented brand of basketball, focusing on ball movement- they dished out 32 assists in that game - and boast impressive perimeter shooting, converting 50% of their attempts from beyond the arc. Ji Hun Park emerged as the standout performer, dropping 27 points. The Koreans’ main strengths lie in their speed and outside shooting, but they struggle with size and physicality in the paint, as evidenced by just 29 rebounds against Nigeria. This lack of height and strength leaves them vulnerable against more athletic teams-an issue likely to be fully exposed against a powerful French side. While South Korea are unlikely to suffer the same fate as Hungary, who lost to France by over 40 points, matching the French blow-for-blow will be a monumental challenge.