Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023.- Colombia became the first semifinalist in the male wheelchair basketball competition at Santiago 2023, defeating Venezuela 70-22 in the opening of the quarterfinals.

The result is not surprising, as in the group stage, the Colombians showed a very good level, defeating Brazil and Puerto Rico, and only losing to the powerful United States. In contrast, Venezuela fell to Argentina and Canada, securing a victory only against Chile.

At the Polideportivo 1 at the Estadio Nacional, Colombia left no doubts about their superiority at any time. At the end of the first half, they were already comfortably leading 36-5 (19-3 in the first quarter and 17-2 in the second), and in the third and final quarter, they only extended their lead.

Colombian Rodrigo Pérez was the top scorer of the match with 13 points, while Nelson Artigas stood out for Venezuela with 8.

In the semifinals, Colombia will face the winner of the match between Canada and Puerto Rico.

The other quarterfinal matches will feature the United States against Chile and Argentina against Brazil.

Written by Alejandro Pérez; translated by Pía Barriga Ferry / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Sebastián Nanco / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport