The Australians, who last reached the final in 1997, defeated Spain 64-55 before the US overcame Belgium 67-59 at the hai-Japan Youth Arena I in Bangkok.

Spain led 15-8 after the first quarter, only for Australia to storm into the led with a mammoth 25 points in the second period.

They held off Spain through the second period, Shyla Heal top scoring with 14 points to set up a final clash tomorrow with an American side desperate to go one better than two years ago.

The US lost their title at Italy 2017 with a surprise final defeat to Russia, but have looked imperious in Thailand and claimed their sixth victory from six by overcoming a spirited Belgium side.

Belgium are the only side in the tournament so far to get within 15 points of the Americans and were driven on by a stellar performance from Maxuella Lisowa Mbaka.

Mbaka scored 21 points and claimed six assists, four rebounds and two steals in a brilliant individual display, but it was not enough to stop the Americans progressing.

The US and Australia faced each other in their opening group stage game, the Americans dominating in a 79-56 victory.

The final will be proceeded by the bronze medal playoff between Spain and Belgium.