GUADALAJARA (Mexico) – Canada and Mexico have secured their spots in the Semi-finals of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026. Both teams picked up their second consecutive win on Wednesday to secure the top two spots in Group B, with one game remaining in the Group Phase. Canada cruised past the Philippines 85-38, while Mexico once again capitalized on home crowd support to defeat Senegal 79-65. With both teams at 2-0 and the Philippines and Senegal at 0-2, the top two spots in the group were decided ahead of the final day.
Canada set the pace
Canada has been the most dominant team in the competition so far. After defeating Senegal 72-57 in their opener, they once again showcased their offensive and defensive prowess against the Philippines, winning by 47 points. The Canadians have a +62 point differential through two games and lead the tournament in scoring, averaging 78.5 points per game.
Syla Swords has led Canada’s offense with 14.0 points per game while shooting 47.1 percent from three-point range. Yvonne Ejim, meanwhile, has posted the team’s highest efficiency rating at 15.5, fueled by averages of 8.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 5.0 points.
Mexico celebrate twice
The hosts also remain undefeated and have secured a spot among the tournament’s top four teams. Mexico had to overcome a deficit of as many as 15 points to defeat the Philippines 61-58 in their opener before controlling their matchup against Senegal from start to finish. The victory confirmed Mexico’s strong form, with the support of their home fans providing an extra boost as they continue their run in the tournament.
Destiny Pitts leads the team in scoring with 14.0 points per game, followed by Anisa Jeffries with 12.0 points and 7.0 rebounds, and Mariana Valenzuela with 10.0 points and 7.0 rebounds. Mayra Gil is also contributing 9.5 points per game. Jeffries leads the team in efficiency rating at 14.5, while Alexia Lagunas has posted a 13.5 rating thanks to averages of 6.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 4.5 points.
With their Semi-final berths secured, Canada and Mexico will face off on the final day of the Group Phase, Thursday, August 20, with first place in Group B on the line. The winner will enter the Semi-finals as group leader and maintain an undefeated record heading into the decisive stage on Saturday, August 22.
FIBA