As Eurobasket 2025 progresses, the basketball courts across Europe are already buzzing with high-stakes action and unexpected turns. While some pre-tournament favorites are steadily consolidating their positions, others find themselves navigating a surprisingly turbulent group stage. The third matchday has delivered its first definitive verdicts, with **Greece** and a remarkably consistent **Poland** officially securing their coveted spots in the Round of 16, setting an early pace for what promises to be a thrilling knockout phase.
Group C: The Goliaths` Stride and a Greek Statement
For **Greece**, the path to the knockout stage seemed almost preordained, yet their efficiency in sealing the deal was nothing short of ruthless. Capitalizing on Italy`s victory over Bosnia earlier in the day, Greece took to the court against Georgia and delivered an unequivocal statement, annihilating their opponents with a commanding **94-53** triumph. The absence of Georgia`s Bitadze and the minimal court time for Shengelia undoubtedly impacted the game, but it scarcely detracts from Greece`s overwhelming performance.
The statistical dominance was evident, particularly from **Giannis Antetokounmpo**, who registered a staggering **27 points** on a remarkable 9-of-11 shooting from the field. Complementing Antetokounmpo`s individual brilliance, an in-form **Mitoglou** provided the crucial early offensive spark, ensuring the game was effectively decided early. Their unblemished record places Greece firmly at the top of their group, a formidable force heading into the next stage.
Not to be outdone in the `expected dominance` category, reigning champions **Spain** delivered a masterclass against **Cyprus**, closing out their fixture with an equally emphatic **91-47** scoreline. This resounding victory sees Spain climb to 5 points in the standings. **Willy Hernangomez** led the scoring for the Spanish armada with **19 points**, contributing to a collective effort where every player on the roster managed to get on the scoreboard – a testament to their depth and cohesive play.
Group D: A Rollercoaster of Brilliance and Upsets
Meanwhile, in Group D, the narrative took a more dramatic turn, highlighted by individual brilliance and seismic upsets. **Slovenia** finally secured their first victory of the tournament, overcoming **Belgium** with an **86-69** score. This win was largely orchestrated by none other than **Luka Doncic**, who recorded his first triple-double of the tournament – a remarkable **26 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists**. This historic performance marks Doncic as only the fourth player in Eurobasket history to achieve such a feat, reigniting Slovenia`s ambitions as they now sit fourth with 4 points.
Perhaps the most startling result of the day came from the clash between **Israel** and a usually formidable **France**. In a truly unexpected upset, Israel bested the French **82-69**. The game`s decisive moment arrived in the final quarter, where **Avdija** and his teammates unleashed a devastating **27-13** run, completely overwhelming the Bleus. **Deni Avdija**, the Portland forward, was instrumental in Israel`s triumph, finishing with an impressive **26 points and 8 rebounds**, leading his nation to a memorable victory.
Amidst the upsets and individual heroics, **Poland** quietly cemented their status as a force to be reckoned with. Despite a valiant effort from **Iceland**, who pushed hard for a comeback led by an excellent **Hlinason**, Poland held firm to secure an **84-75** victory. This win marks Poland`s third consecutive triumph, ensuring their qualification for the Round of 16 and maintaining their position at the summit of the group. The composed play of **Loyd** and **Ponitka** proved decisive in withstanding the Icelandic assaults in the closing stages.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Glory
As the dust settles on this pivotal matchday, the Eurobasket 2025 picture begins to take clearer shape. Greece and Poland have demonstrated their early intentions with strong performances and early qualifications, while Slovenia`s resurgence, fueled by Luka Doncic`s brilliance, adds another layer of intrigue. The unexpected defeat of France serves as a stark reminder that in European basketball, no victory is guaranteed, and every opponent commands respect.
With early qualifications secured and contenders both rising and stumbling, the group stage promises more exhilarating basketball before the true test of the knockout rounds begins. Fans can anticipate more thrilling encounters as teams vie for crucial positioning and fight to keep their Eurobasket dreams alive.
