By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
This Sunday, eight games were played in the qualifiers for the FIBA Basketball World Cup, but probably none reached the level or excitement of Germany vs. Croatia.
The two best teams in Group E faced off in a rematch on German soil, and unlike what happened just a few days ago in Croatia, this time the victory went to the team led by Alex Mumbrú.
Germany defeated Croatia 91–89 after 45 minutes of pure drama, as the game was decided in overtime.
There were four main protagonists in the matchup, two from each side. Oscar da Silva (15 points and 13 rebounds) and especially Johannes Thiemann (24 points and 12 rebounds) led the home team.
Their performances were crucial in countering the outstanding displays of Mario Hezonja (30 points and 7 rebounds) and Jaleen Smith (12 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists).
Despite holding a 15-point lead in the third quarter (48–63), Croatia were unable to maintain their advantage and saw Germany tie the game at the end of regulation (77–77).
In overtime, the game remained tightly contested, but the hosts made the most of their momentum to secure the win.