By Semih Tuna/ info@eurohoops.net
Riga, Latvia – Portugal has officially reached the Knockout Phase of the EuroBasket for the first time in history after defeating Estonia 68-65 in a crucial Group A showdown.
After 40 minutes of a real battle, Portugal recorded their second win of the group stage and secured a spot in the Round of 16. The historic achievement came despite Neemias Queta getting ejected midway through the third quarter.
The Boston Celtics big man received his second technical after referees decided his celebration went too far. Still, Queta nearly finished as Portugal’s top scorer with 15 points, only behind Rafael Lisboa who had 17 and scored last seven points for Portugal.
Travante Williams added 11 points and eight rebounds, while Miguel Queiroz delivered a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
On the other side, Arthur Konontsuk paced Estonia with 20 points, while Kristian Kullamäe followed with 17 and six assists.