Jordi Fernandez Reflects on Canada’s Defeat in World Cup Semifinals
Canada’s men’s basketball team suffered heartbreak in the FIBA World Cup semifinals, losing to Serbia 100-86. After the game, head coach Jordi Fernandez spoke to the media about the team’s performance and mindset going into the bronze medal match.
Proud of the Effort, But Defense Let the Team Down
Fernandez congratulated Serbia, calling them “outstanding on both sides of the floor.” He acknowledged that Canada played well on offense, scoring 86 points, but struggled mightily on defense.
![After Loss to Serbia, Jordi Fernández Evaluates Canada's Performance and Anticipates the Bronze Medal Match](https://news360usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/After-Loss-to-Serbia-Jordi-Fernandez-Evaluates-Canadas-Performance-and-Anticipates-the-Bronze-Medal-Match-1.webp)
“Allowing the opponent to shoot 62% from the field indicates that we did not do a good job defensively and were not ready enough. However, I’m proud of the effort of our players. They work extremely hard to improve, and we are determined to give our best effort in the next game for a medal.”
The coach took responsibility for the defensive struggles, saying it was his job to prepare the team. He praised the players for continuing to battle through foul trouble.
Lessons Learned About Representing Canada
Fernandez reflected on the lessons learned by participating in a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup.
“It helps you get better as a coach or as a player. We have learned a lot about representing our country and the pride that goes with that. Our players have given tremendous effort, although we lack experience in these types of games. I’m excited about the potential of this group and the young talent coming up. Now, we must focus and prepare for the next one.”
Read More :
- Rockets’ Big Moves: NBA Trade Scenarios After Free Agency Frenzy
- US Open Tennis Semifinal: 20-Year-Old Sensation Stuns Tiafoe! Historic US Open Clash
- Dynamic Duo Alert: Holland and Buzelis Steer G League Ignite to Victory Against Perth Wildcats
- Miguel Serrano: Gran Canaria’s Shining Star Now Dazzles with HLA Alicante
- Dynamic Duo Alert: Holland and Buzelis Steer G League Ignite to Victory Against Perth Wildcats
He emphasized the importance of focusing on the next game – the bronze medal match. Despite the disappointment, he wants the team to shift their mindset quickly.
Serbia’s Physicality and Pesic’s Coaching
As expected from a solid defensive team, the coach praised Serbia for their physical play. He gave credit to opposing coach Sasha Pesic for having his team well-prepared.
“Pesic is an exceptional coach, and his team was very ready. The loss was more about our shortcomings than their strengths.”
Fernandez pointed out that in FIBA play, 86 points are usually enough to win. But failing to get stops and secure rebounds made it impossible against a potent Serbian offense.
“Defense and rebounding are crucial at this level. That is a lesson we must learn as a team.”
![After Loss to Serbia, Jordi Fernández Evaluates Canada's Performance and Anticipates the Bronze Medal Match](https://news360usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/After-Loss-to-Serbia-Jordi-Fernandez-Evaluates-Canadas-Performance-and-Anticipates-the-Bronze-Medal-Match.webp)
Winning a Medal is Still Possible
In closing, Fernandez emphasized the importance of still having a shot at a medal. He noted that recovering quickly, especially mentally, will be vital to having a chance against the France vs. Poland semifinal winner.
“Winning a medal means so much for our country, players, and program. Despite today’s disappointment, we must stay positive and learn from this.”
The coach remained upbeat, saying the team that can rebound best from the semifinal defeat, particularly in their mental approach, will have the edge in the bronze medal game.
“As coaches, we always talk about physicality without fouling. Today, it seems like we came up short in that respect. But our players battled hard in the third quarter and nearly came back. Ultimately, we couldn’t contain their offense.”
While disappointed, Fernandez is eager to regroup and prepare Canada to win its first-ever World Cup medal.