A blistering start against the previously undefeated Group A winners Latvia paved the way for a famous 67-34 victory in the last-16 clash at Thai-Japan Youth Arena I in Bangkok.

Sika Kone was the top performer for Mali, who had lost all three of their Group B matches coming into today's game.

She managed 19 points and 22 rebounds.

There was also a superb contribution from playmaker Fanta Kone as she racked up 11 assists to smash the tournament's previous best of seven.

"In today's game, we decided to play with more intensity," Kone said.

"It was good.

"We defended better and we played together, so we won and advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time.

"And we definitely think we can go even further in this tournament. 

"We just have to stick together and keep talking to each other."

Awaiting Mali in the last eight are Australia, who beat Colombia 62-53 today.

The winners of Groups B, C and D are also through to the quarter-finals, with Belgium defeating hosts Thailand 88-47, seven-times champions the United States overcoming Germany 79-61 and Spain downing South Korea 60-51.

Next up for Belgium are Japan after they registered a 76-68 win over Hungary.

The US go on to face Canada, 82-50 victors at the expense of Argentina, while Spain will meet China, 71-28 winners over Mozambique.

Following a rest day tomorrow, all four quarter-final ties are due to be played on Friday (July 26).

The semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday (July 27) before the final takes centre stage on Sunday (July 28).