Serbia full of emotion after reaching Final, France think third place

MADRID (FIBA Basketball World Cup) - Serbia were a mixed bag of emotions after holding off a Nicolas Batum-led charge by France to win Friday's Semi-Final 90-85 and reach the Final of the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup and a showdown with the United States.

"We did an amazing job. We need to rest and then we will play one more game against the USA," Serbian forward Nemanja Bjelica said after the game in the mixed zone, barely able to stand up straight, exhausted from the effort in the Semi-Final.

Everybody is happy, our country is happy. - Bjelica

"Batum had an amazing game. You cannot play 40 minutes at such a high level. But we did just enough."

Batum scored 17 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter as he helped France cut an 18-point deficit all the way down to two late in the game.

Despite giving up 85 total points, Serbia felt that they play solid defense.

"The first two, three quarters we played great defense and got a lot of easy points. That's the most important. We are boring - just defense, defense, defense," said Nikola Kalinic.

Coach Sasha Djordjevic struggled to hold back his tears talking to media after the game.

"I'm really enjoying this moment as much as I can," he said.

We deserved the Final. - Djordjevic

Milos Teodosic scored 24 points to lead Serbia but five teammates scored at least 10 points to send Serbia to the final against the United States.

"It's a special game. Finals are always a special game, especially in a big competition like the World Cup," said Serbian center Miroslav Raduljica.

France, meanwhile, turned their attention to Saturday's Third-Place against Lithuania, where a win would secure their best-ever showing at FIBA's flagship event.

Eighteen hours until fight for medal against Lithuania. - Batum

"History can still be made. Let's stay together," said Batum.

France coach Vincent Collet was pleased with his team’s fight to come back in the fourth quarter.

"We came back close in the second half and it shows we have spirit," said the Frenchman.

FIBA