Germany accelerates just in time against Portugal to advance to the quarterfinals of Eurobasket

Germany survived a night of poor shooting from the perimeter to ultimately prevail over Portugal 85-58 in the round of 16 of EuroBasket 2025, in a game that marked the return to the sideline of their coach, Álex Mumbrú, after overcoming an illness that had landed him in the hospital.

The reigning world champions maintain their unbeaten status in the tournament and reach the quarterfinals for the third consecutive edition. Germany, who had not been truly tested until now and entered as the highest-scoring team with an average of 105.8 points per game, were caught off guard at the start. The Portuguese team went up 7-2 and also led 26-21 and 32-21 at halftime. The Germans only scored 14 points in the second quarter, their lowest tally in a quarter throughout the championship, heading into the break with only 31 points, their lowest output in a first half.

After the break, difficulties from beyond the arc kept Portugal in the game, closing in at 44-43. It was then that Maodo Lo came through with a crucial three-pointer, Germany's second after 24 unsuccessful attempts. An 8-0 run gave breathing room to the champions (52-43), but the lead was narrowed once again (52-51) by the end of the third quarter. The definitive surge came in the last ten minutes with a devastating 22-3 run that sealed the game.

Franz Wagner was named the game's MVP after leading Germany with 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, in addition to providing the energy the team needed in critical moments. Dennis Schröder also contributed 16 points, Isaac Bonga shone with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals, while Maodo Lo ended with 12 points thanks to his 4 timely three-pointers. For Portugal, Neemias Queta stood out with 18 points and 11 rebounds, but his performance was not enough to thwart Germany's final push.

Germany had entered the game shooting 43% from beyond the arc but started with a dismal 1 for 24. However, they reacted in time by hitting 6 of their next 7 attempts to finish with 20% (6 of 30).

The victory serves as a warning to Germany, who for the first time in the tournament found themselves on the ropes. Mumbrú's squad now boasts five wins in five historical matchups against Portugal, a team they hadn't faced since 1997. In the quarterfinals, they will meet the winner of Italy-Slovenia. As for Portugal, their elimination does not overshadow a historic participation: the team bids farewell among the top 16 for the first time since 2007, setting the foundation for further progress in future international competitions.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alemania acelera a tiempo ante Portugal para meterse en cuartos de Eurobasket