Key Takeaways from Istanbul

Türkiye overcame a strong challenge from Argentina, winning 71-69 in a tightly contested FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament game held in Istanbul. The victory keeps Türkiye in a strong position in the qualifying group.

Türkiye started strong, building an early lead with a 7-0 run in the first minute and 12 seconds. They finished the first period ahead 21-8, capitalizing on effective basket usage.

Second Half Battle

The second period saw a more competitive back-and-forth. Türkiye extended their advantage to 39-24 by halftime, with Olcay Çakır playing a key role.

Canada mounted a comeback in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to six points with 44 seconds remaining (45-51). Türkiye entered the final quarter leading 53-47.

Dramatic Fourth Quarter Finish

Canada continued their momentum into the fourth quarter, taking the lead for the first time in the match with a basket by Pellington at the 37th minute (64-63). The final minutes were marked by intense competition. A critical basket from Olcay Çakır Turgut proved decisive as Türkiye secured the 71-69 victory.

“The National Team, who scored a critical basket with Olcay Çakır Turgut against Canada, which could not take advantage of consecutive offensive opportunities in the last episode, won the match 71-69.”

AA

Tournament Context

Each team in the Istanbul qualifying tournament – including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Hungary, Japan, and Türkiye – will play a total of five games. The top three teams from the tournament will advance to the Women’s World Cup, alongside a Continental Cup winner (Australia, Belgium, Nigeria, USA).

• Group Stage Format: Round-robin, with each team playing every other team once.
• Qualification: Top three teams from each tournament qualify for the World Cup.

Recent Head-to-Head History

Here’s a look at recent matchups between Argentina and Canada:

• July 6, 2025: Argentina 75 – Canada 76 (FIBA Women’s AmeriCup 3rd Place Game)
• June 29, 2025: Canada 71 – Argentina 48 (FIBA Women’s AmeriCup Group Phase)
• July 7, 2023: Canada 68 – Argentina 60 (FIBA Women’s AmeriCup Quarter-Finals)

FAQ

What is the format of the qualifying tournament?

Each team plays all other teams in its group once, totaling five games per team.

How many teams qualify for the Women’s World Cup from this tournament?

The top three teams in each tournament qualify.