The United States aims for a fifth consecutive gold medal as they meet Hungary in Berlin after a strong group stage performance
Category: Sports
Team USA will face Hungary in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup on September 10, 2026, at 5:30 a.m. ET in Berlin, Germany. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams in the Women's World Cup since 1986, when Team USA secured a 78-63 victory in the group stage.
The significance of this game is heightened as Hungary has not reached the quarterfinals since 1986, and their last placement in the top five was in 1957. With both teams eager to make their mark, the stakes are high for both sides.
Team USA, led by coach Kara Lawson, is on a quest to win its fifth consecutive FIBA championship. The Americans swept through Group D with victories over China, Italy, and Czechia. Their group stage performance included a 94-61 win against China, a narrow 55-52 victory over Italy, and a commanding 105-64 triumph over Czechia.
Coach Lawson emphasized the need for consistency in the knockout stages, stating, "You can't play poorly in the medal round and win. You have to play well." She expressed confidence in her team, which includes standout players like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese, all of whom are gaining invaluable experience in their first major international tournament.
Hungary, appearing in its first World Cup since 1998, has made a strong impression. Star player Dorka Juhász, who plays for the Minnesota Lynx, has been a key contributor, averaging a double-double with 15.3 points and 11 rebounds per game. Alongside her, Virag Takacs-Kiss has also been a formidable presence, contributing 14 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. Together, they have accounted for a substantial portion of Hungary's scoring.
"I think it's going to be a great game," Juhász said. "Not many times have Hungary faced USA in any shape or form, so I think it's going to be fun. It's already a big thing that we're in the top eight in the world. It's been, what, 40 years? But we're going to rest. We're going to bring our hearts, our fight, and give all we have in that game."
Hungary's path to the quarterfinals included overcoming Japan, where they displayed their resilience and skill. The victory over Japan was marked by Juhász's leadership and the team's ability to execute their game plan effectively.
Historically, Team USA has dominated international women's basketball, boasting 11 gold medals—the most of any country—in the FIBA World Cup. Their winning streak stretches back to 2006, with the team currently on a 33-game winning streak in World Cup play. This legacy places immense pressure on the players to perform at their best.
In the group stage, Team USA displayed a mix of offensive firepower and defensive prowess. Their ability to score efficiently, coupled with a strong defensive strategy, has made them formidable opponents. Notably, they have averaged 80 points per game, with a shooting percentage that hovers around 50%.
In stark comparison, Hungary has faced challenges with turnovers, averaging 21.5 turnovers per game, the worst in the tournament. This issue has led to opponents capitalizing on their mistakes, scoring an average of 24 points off turnovers. If Hungary hopes to compete effectively against Team USA, addressing these turnover issues will be imperative.
The quarterfinal matchup between Team USA and Hungary will not only determine who advances to the semifinals but will also showcase the evolution of women's basketball on the global stage. The winner will face either Australia or Spain in the semifinals scheduled for September 12, 2026.
As the game approaches, both teams are preparing intensively. Team USA aims to build on its strengths, leveraging its size and athleticism to exploit Hungary's weaknesses, particularly in transition and on the perimeter. Players like Rhyne Howard and Angel Reese are expected to play key roles in executing this strategy.
In the lead-up to the game, Lawson has highlighted the importance of turning the pace of play to their advantage. "We haven't really played Hungary, and knowing they have Dorka, they have a strong post presence, but really trying to turn them over as much as possible, make the pace our type of style of play," Stewart noted.
Meanwhile, Hungary must find ways to maximize its scoring opportunities, particularly from its perimeter players. Reka Lelik, who scored 23 points against Japan, will need to replicate that performance to keep Team USA's defense honest. Her consistency will be a determining factor in Hungary's ability to challenge the American squad.
As the anticipation builds for this historic clash, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams. Team USA looks to continue its legacy of excellence, whereas Hungary aims to solidify its resurgence in the world of women's basketball. The game will likely be a thrilling encounter, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.
The quarterfinal showdown is set to tip off at 5:30 a.m. ET, and fans can catch the action live on TNT or via streaming platforms like DIRECTV, Sling Blue, and HBO Max. With both teams ready to give their all, this matchup is sure to be a highlight of the tournament.