Sweden Falls to Germany in EuroBasket Opener

EuroBasket opener against host nation Germany. Sweden suffered a defeat despite a strong comeback.

– They have until midnight to be upset, says SVT expert Amanda Zahui.

Sweden had a tough start when the EuroBasket began in Germany. The host nation took control immediately and quickly gained a significant lead.

At halftime, the score was 44–27, and the home crowd likely thought victory was secured. But the Swedes hadn't given up. In the second half, Sweden came closer and closer.

With three minutes left in the game, the gap was only seven points between the teams, largely due to the outstanding play of Klara Lundquist and Fanny Wadling.

– I don't think viewers understand how unusual it is. She is exceptional, brilliant, fantastic, said Rajacic on SVT.

But it wasn't enough. Sweden lost the EuroBasket opener 89–76, despite a strong comeback.

– Sweden played a very good second half. It was in the first period that they lost it, says SVT expert Nick Rajacic.

– You can't win games in EuroBasket when you concede 84 points. At this level, it doesn't work.

Expert and former national team player Amanda Zahui:

– They have until midnight to be upset, then it's just about recharging.

In Sweden's group, there are also Spain and Great Britain.