Italy, Serbia, Slovenia, Lithuania, Latvia and Germany - six European selections made it to the quarterfinals of Mundobasket and remained in the game for direct placement at the Olympic Games, which will provide the two best from the Old Continent. And after today's two matches, it will be known who will be one step closer to a medal, but also to a place in Paris. In addition to the European selections, the USA and Canada are in the quarterfinals.
Lithuania - Serbia: Duel of old acquaintances
The program in Manila opens (10.45) Lithuania and Serbia. The Lithuanians defeated the USA in the last match of the group stage and, along with Latvia, they are the most pleasant surprise of Mundobasket. The most pleasant, because they came in a rather weakened composition without Domantas Sabonis and several Euroleague players.
- The win against the USA is one of the biggest in our careers, but there is no time to celebrate. Serbia will not welcome us with flowers and a red carpet - said the selector Kazis Maksvitis.
Serbia, despite the defeat against Italy, avoided the already seen duel against the USA in the quarter-finals.
- Against Lithuania, it is necessary to have an extraordinary defense and an extraordinary attack. We have to play one of the best games so far in order to win - believes the Serbian coach Svetislav Pesic.
Italy - USA: Lithuania was a warning
The first place in group I "Azure" did not bring any privilege, but the first candidate for gold - USA. The second quarter-final duel is scheduled for 14.40:XNUMX p.m.
- We don't give up, we fight for every ball. We play with our heart and then you don't want to be our opponent. USA is a talented team. It is different from the other selections - announced the clash with the Americans, the coach of Italy Gianmarco Poceco.
The loss to Lithuania didn't bother the USA too much.
- It does not affect our goal - winning the gold medal. There are good teams in the championship, who know exactly what they are doing.
We will have to play much stronger - believes the USA coach Stiv Circle.
Germany - Latvia and Canada - Slovenia will play on Wednesday.
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