Gritty Victory in Berlin: USA Survives Poor Shooting and Italian Fire in 55-52 Battle

In its closest FIBA Women’s World Cup contest in 20 years, Team USA narrowly avoided a historic shocker in Berlin on Sunday, edging a fierce Italian squad 55–52. The Americans extended their World Cup winning streak to 32 consecutive games, but the nail-biting finish served as an urgent wake-up call for the tournament favorites heading into the final stretch of group play.

Anxious Night from the Field and Point-Blank Struggles

After exploding for 94 points in their opening win over China, the American offense stalled against Italy’s disciplined, high-effort defensive shell. Team USA built an early 19–8 lead after one quarter, but cold shooting quickly allowed the Italians back into the game. The U.S. struggled immensely around the rim, repeatedly missing high-percentage putbacks, contested layups, and point-blank interior attempts right in front of the basket. Combined with a cold afternoon from deep, the Americans produced their lowest scoring output in a World Cup game this century.

Italian Fire, Physicality, and Fourth-Quarter Drama

Italy played with relentless grit, steadily erasing the early double-digit deficit behind the leadership of Golden State Valkyries star Cecilia Zandalasini. Aggressive on the glass and physical on perimeter hand-offs, the Italian women cut the lead to three entering the fourth quarter and officially took a 50–49 lead with 3:21 remaining. Pushed to the brink, the U.S. relied on timely interior defense and clutch free-throw execution down the stretch to reclaim a 55–52 edge. Italy had one final chance to force overtime, but Zandalasini’s contested three-point attempt fell short with three seconds on the clock.

Film Room Mandate Ahead of Czechia

While the victory keeps the U.S. atop Group D at 2–0, the coaching staff will hit the film room immediately to address fundamental lapses. Correcting rim-finishing technique, improving half-court ball movement against aggressive pressure, and tightening transition defense will be critical teaching points as Team USA prepares to close out group play against Czechia on Monday.