Despite their loss against Latvia, the U20 Boys managed to reach the Quarter Finals at the European Championship in Italy.
Belgium never really managed to set foot in the A-division of the U20 Men European Championship before. The last time Belgium was represented in the top competition is already 6 years ago. On top of that, the last time Belgium won a game in the A-division was… never. Never before were we able to win a game at the big stage, which makes a spot in Europe’s top 8 Men’s teams U20 a remarkable feat by coach Vervaeck’s squad.
After finishing second in the First Round, the main goal was already achieved: staying in the A-division. The wins against Italy and Croatia eventually were key in the promotion to the Quarter Finals, as Belgium finished the Second Round at the 4th place, clinching the final ticket to the Quarter Finals.
Along with Belgium, Spain, France, Czech Republic, Turkey, Latvia, Serbia and Lithuania earned their spot in Europe’s top 8. Belgium will face Spain, last years runner-up and silver medallist on Friday at 16h30.
You will be able to watch the game via livestream on FIBA’s YouTube Channel.
Photo credit: FIBA