While Team USA continues to beat opponents comfortably, Russia has a knack for close games. Despite what the 79-62 final score might suggest, Russia had to rally in the final four minutes to beat Spain.
Down 11 points at the half, Russia outscored Spain 51-25 in the second half, taking the lead for good with four minutes remaining.
Ekaterina Savelyeva had a monster game for Russia, scoring 28 on 4-of-5 shooting from the perimeter in 35 minutes. Bogdanova was on the floor for 14 minutes and contributed four points and six rebounds.
Russia advances to the semifinals and a rematch with Serbia & Montenegro on Saturday. The two teams met in the preliminary round, a game Russia won by a point in overtime. Bogdanova was Russia's most effective weapon against Serbia & Montenegro the first time around.
In the other semifinal, China will play the United States. The two winners will play for the 2005 FIBA U19 World Championship on Sunday.
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