Hungary Women secured a significant 77-65 victory over Japan Women in a FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup group stage match on March 11, 2026. The Hungarian side used a strong second-half performance to pull away from a determined Japanese team, claiming a crucial win in the global tournament. Japan started brightly, using their trademark speed and perimeter shooting to keep pace early on. However, Hungary's size and physicality in the paint began to tell as the game progressed, establishing a rebounding advantage that led to second-chance points. A key run in the third quarter, sparked by defensive stops and transition baskets, allowed Hungary to build a double-digit lead that Japan could not overcome. Standout performances came from Hungary's interior players, who dominated the boards, while Japan's guards fought hard but struggled with consistency from three-point range. The result is vital for Hungary's hopes of advancing to the knockout stages, while Japan must regroup quickly in a competitive group. The coaches praised their teams' effort, with Hungary's tactician highlighting defensive intensity and Japan's manager pointing to the need for better shot selection against physical opponents.