BEIJING, Aug 21: World champions Australia overpowered China 90-56 on Thursday to reach the final of the Olympic women’s basketball tournament.

Belinda Snell and Kristi Harrower scored 30 points as Australia set up a showdown with fierce rivals the United States in Saturday’s gold medal game.

Australia were missing 2006 world championship MVP Penny Taylor with damaged ankle ligaments, although she is expected to play in the final.

The Australians were silver medallists in 2000 and 2004 but have never won Olympic gold. The US are bidding to win a fourth straight Olympic title.

—Reuters