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After Team USA put an end to the feel good story of the competition, dismantling Nigeria with ease, and Australia crushed Serbia, the two teams are going to meet for a spot in the gold medal game in the women’s 5×5 basketball competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The game tips off on Friday, Aug. 9 at 11:30 a.m. ET (NBC).

The United States remains unbeaten, whereas Australia lost its opening game to Nigeria. It was a wake-up call for the Opals. The 13-point loss on July 29 exposed certain flaws in their game, especially not handling the ball properly, as evidenced by the 26 turnovers committed against D’Tigress. After tough wins over Canada and France, by five and seven points, respectively, the Opals made it out of Group B. And after beating Serbia in the quarterfinals, the reward for their hard work is a chance to become No. 60 in Team USA’s streak of consecutive Olympic wins.

The Americans had their quarterfinal game won after three quarters and in the final 10 minutes they were just having fun with it, as head coach Cheryl Reeve gave playing time to some battle-hungry players. Chances of the semifinal game being competitive aren’t good, as it would take a perfect performance from the Opals and an off night from Team USA.

The frontcourt duo of A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart has been unstoppable so far, with Wilson averaging 20.3 points and 10 rebounds and Stewart chipping in 18.5 points and 5.8 boards. If there’s a anybody that can slow them down, it’s the combined forces of Alanna Smith, Steph Talbot and Ezi Magbegor. Smith has been dependable on both sides of the floor (12.3 points, 7.3 boards, 1.8 steals), but against Serbia she balled like crazy, finishing the game with 22 points and 13 rebounds.

On the defensive end, the key to beating the Opals will be limiting Sami Whitcomb’s playmaking. The two-time WNBA champ is averaging 14.8 points and six dimes per game. Because she can pass and score, tight marking will be essential. On offense, Team USA has an abundance of riches.

Game information

United States vs. Australia

When: Friday, August 9 at 11:30 a.m. ET

Where: Bercy Arena in Paris, France

How to watch: NBC