French women's basketball center: Trying to exploit Zhang Ziyu's weaknesses, we have more recovery time than China

The quarterfinal between China and France will tip off at 8:30 PM Beijing time on September 10. Compared to the Chinese team, which has less than 24 hours to recuperate, the French squad has had two days off from competition. This is a valuable privilege at this point in the event, and Badiane, along with her teammates, has fully capitalized on this window.

The last time France reached the World Cup semifinals was in 1953. Four years ago, the French women's team was just 40 minutes away from the semifinals. On the Sydney court, they were eliminated by China in the quarterfinals, with China winning 85–71. However, since then, the rosters of both national teams have changed significantly, and Badiane does not view this rematch as a revenge game.

"Personally, I don't see this game as revenge. Their team is very different from back then, and so is ours. For us, it's just another game. The goal is to play well and keep moving forward in the tournament."

Heading into this quarterfinal, France holds a notable advantage: energy reserves. China had to play two games in two consecutive days, while France has had two days off, including a half-day of free time on Tuesday afternoon.

"We have had more recovery time than China," said Badiane. "We were able to focus on ourselves and study the opponent's videos. We still need to maintain our game rhythm, and the training intensity won't drop. But the break gave us more time to relax and concentrate on the next opponent."

Teammate Migna Touré shared a similar view, but she does not believe that rest alone guarantees success. "I'd say we do have an edge in recovery—we have much more time to rest," she explained. "But that doesn't guarantee anything... Don't think victory will be handed to us. The game won't be easy."

The challenge that China presents to the French women's team is completely different from any previous opponent. The 2022 World Cup runner-up boasts a dominant frontcourt, exemplified by Han Xu, who put up 21 points and 11 rebounds against Puerto Rico.

"I expect this to be a tough battle," warned Badiane. "Quarterfinals are the scariest games for any team. At this stage, everyone brings their best. We were lucky to face different styles in the group stage and gained experience. I believe that strength will carry us forward. We are ready to fight."

The most unique player is undoubtedly Zhang Ziyu, who stands at 2.23 meters. For France's interior players, this is a massive challenge—both in terms of height and tactics. Badiane said, "She is a very special type of player. We anticipated the possibility of facing her, so we will be prepared. There are weaknesses with such tall players, and we will try to exploit them."

French media suggest that Zhang Ziyu's weaknesses lie mainly in her mobility and her ability to sustain high-intensity physical effort over extended periods.