Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Canada booked their spot in the finals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) Saturday night at the expense of New Zealand, 78-72, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Cory Joseph led the way for Canada with 20 points, while Tristan Thompson notched a double-double with 13 markers and 10 rebounds.

There was nothing to separate the two sides with the scores tied at 42 apiece after two quarters of play.

An 8-2 run by the Canadians near the end of the third period looked to give them a commanding advantage before the final frame, but the rally was abruptly cut short by a Corey Webster triple, which cut the lead to 58-54.

With New Zealand trailing only 73-71 at the final 2-minute mark of the fourth quarter, it was still anybody’s game.

Foul trouble and crucial turnovers down the stretch proved costly for New Zealand, as Canada buried clutch free throws to seal the victory.

Corey Webster paced the Kiwis with 21 markers, while Thomas Abercrombie slotted in with 16.

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