By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Czech Republic made Group K of the second round of the 2019 FIBA World Cup complicated with Saturday’s emphatic win over Brazil. The South American national team finished the first round with a 3-0 W-L record, but now has to beat USA on Monday at Shenzhen to have a chance to progress to the quarterfinals.
Well-experienced Leandro Barbosa understands the importance of the upcoming contest, but also holds in mind the 2010 FIBA World Cup, one of his five appearances in the global tournament. Back in Turkey nine years ago, Brazil suffered a 70-68 defeat to Team USA. The 36-year-old guard has since re-watched the match several times.
“It was a game that we lost at the end. Unfortunately they won” remembered Barbosa before admitting he has reviewed the particular group stage game a lot.
“We have to forget about it, and quick. We only have one more shot. And it’s going to be against the USA” he added on his team’s current situation.
“We know that it’s a very tough matchup, a tough team. But nothing is impossible” went on Barbosa. “We still have to believe in ourselves and our team that we have one more shot to do it and be included in the top eight teams in the world. It’s going to be tough but we’re going to have to turn the page and come up really strong.”
If Greece beats the Czech Republic before Brazil’s upcoming game, Barbosa’s side will just need a win over the powerhouse of the group. However, if the result of the first game goes the other way. Brazil will need to prevail by at least a 12-point margin.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL