By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup achieved another milestone today. Cape Verde secured their inaugural victory by defeating Venezuela 81-75 in Group F. This win leveled their record at 1-1 and left Venezuela still searching for a win after two rounds.
The standout player for the Cape Verdean team, Real Madrid center Edy Tavares, contributed six points and an impressive 14 rebounds, with three assist and steals, as well as two blocks, all resulting in a PIR of 20. Even tough he shot only four times, Tavares still made a great contribution in his country’s historic feat.
Leading the scoring charge in this historic win was Betinho Gomes, who tallied 22 points. Will Tavares added another 20 points, while Ivan Almeida contributed 17. Cape Verde’s sharp shooting from beyond the arc, going 11-26 from the three-point line, significantly bolstered their victory.
SMALL NATION, BIG HEART
Cape Verde secure a historic first win in World Cup! 👏👏#FIBAWC x #WinForCaboVerde 🇨🇻 pic.twitter.com/sAnRrippyY— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 🏆 (@FIBAWC) August 28, 2023
On the Venezuelan side, David Cubillan led their scoring with 15 points, followed by Jhornan Zamora with 14 and Garly Sojo with 13 points. Unfortunately, Michael Carrera sustained an injury during the final period and was unable to continue the match.
Tavares and co. will face Slovenia in the last round of the group phase, while Venezuela will meet with Georgia (30/08).
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Photo: fiba.basketball