Canada defeated Argentina 97-92 in FIBA men’s basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifier action on Monday night at the Videotron Centre, according to game reports. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 26 points and Lu Dort added 25 to lead the Canadian side, which remains undefeated in eight games under head coach Gordie Herbert.
How Canada Secured the Hard-Fought Victory Over Argentina
Playing in front of more than 13,000 fans in Quebec City, Canada had to overcome a sluggish start and a double-digit deficit. Argentina, ranked eighth in the world, dominated the early minutes. The South American squad put together a 13-1 run in just over two minutes during the first quarter and grabbed a 29-23 lead by the end of the frame.
The deficit grew to 17 points early in the second quarter when Argentina surged ahead 40-23. That run coincided with Lu Dort sitting on the bench due to foul trouble. However, Canada chipped away before halftime, narrowing the gap to 53-48.
“We put ourselves behind the eight ball,” head coach Gordie Herbert told reporters after the game. “The important thing was to cut the lead to single digits before halftime, and credit to our players, that’s what they did.”
A more physical and aggressive Canadian team emerged for the third quarter, outscoring Argentina 25-16. Veteran Kelly Olynyk provided crucial interior scoring under the basket during this frame. In the final 10 minutes, Alexander-Walker took control of the offense to seal the 97-92 win.
Did you know? Canada currently sits fifth in the official FIBA world rankings and remains undefeated through eight games in the World Cup qualifying cycle.
Lu Dort and Nickeil Alexander-Walker Lead the Offensive Charge
For Lu Dort, the night marked a triumphant return to competitive basketball. Playing his first game since the NBA playoffs, the Montreal native opened the scoring with a deep three-pointer that electrified the Videotron Centre crowd. He finished the night with 25 points.
“However, I regained my legs later in the game. I haven’t played a competitive game since the (NBA) playoffs, but I took care of my health this summer, and felt ready to go,” Dort told reporters.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker matched his backcourt intensity by netting a team-high 26 points, stepping up in the clutch moments of the fourth quarter. Despite Canada’s win, Argentina’s Nicolas Laprovittola led all scorers with a superb 31-point performance, while teammate Nicolas Brussino chipped in 11 points.
Path to the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar
The victory keeps Canada atop its qualifying group as the team looks ahead to the tournament in Doha. According to FIBA qualification formats, the top three teams in the two remaining America groups will secure their spots at the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar. Additionally, the best fourth-place finisher across the groups will earn a trip to Doha.
Canada’s next test comes on Nov. 26 when they travel to face Uruguay in South America. Just three days later, on Nov. 29, the Canadians will play a rematch against Argentina on opposing soil.
| Statistic | Canada | Argentina |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 97 | 92 |
| Rebounds | 35 | 33 |
| Assists | 23 | 19 |
| Shooting Percentage | 48-47 | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who led Canada in scoring against Argentina?
Nickeil Alexander-Walker led Canada with 26 points, closely followed by Lu Dort with 25 points.
What is Canada’s record in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers?
Canada is undefeated with an 8-0 record in the qualifying phase.
Who was the top scorer for Argentina?
Nicolas Laprovittola led Argentina with a game-high 31 points.
Where will the 2027 FIBA World Cup take place?
The 2027 FIBA World Cup will be held in Qatar, with matches played in Doha.
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