Breanna Stewart contributed 16 points, and Kahleah Copper added 13 as the U.S. defeated Spain 76-66 on Saturday, advancing to the championship game of the women’s FIBA World Cup. The Americans will face France in a rematch of the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal game, which the U.S. won by a single point.

The victory marks the U.S.’s 35th consecutive win in the World Cup since a loss to Russia in the semifinals in 2006. The team is now one victory away from claiming a fifth straight tournament title, equaling the former Soviet Union’s record for most consecutive championships.

Though the U.S. cruised through their past two games, they faced challenges against Spain, struggling to achieve an offensive rhythm. Breanna Stewart guarded Spain’s Iyana Martín during the semifinal held in Berlin.

The game saw both teams tied at 58 at the start of the fourth quarter. The Americans then scored 12 of the first 14 points, securing a 70-60 lead, their largest of the game with 5:20 remaining.

Spain managed to close within eight points, but the U.S. maintained their lead. The Americans made efficient use of foul shots, converting 27 of 35 opportunities. It marked the teams’ first World Cup encounter since the U.S. triumphed over Spain for the gold medal in 2014, which was Stewart’s debut with the national team.

Spain began the game strong, scoring nine of the initial 10 points, presenting the largest deficit the U.S. faced in the tournament, surpassing the three-point trail against Italy. The U.S. newcomers spurred the team with a 12-2 run to close the first period.

Despite this, the Americans struggled to significantly extend their lead in the second quarter. Spain’s physical defensive approach resulted in numerous fouls, with the U.S. taking 27 free throws in the first half, compared to 26 field goal attempts. The U.S. led 39-36 at halftime.

Spain, who will face host Germany in the bronze medal game, did not relent in their efforts, exhibiting resilience throughout the match.