Europe U20 Championship Division A – Group Stage
Date: 13 July 2026 | Tip-off: 02:30 local time

Match Overview

In a late-night thriller on July 13, Spain U20 edged Croatia U20 74–70 in a hard-fought contest that went down to the final minute. Both teams showcased their trademark basketball pedigree—Spain with fluid ball movement and Croatia with physical inside play. The game was a compelling advertisement for U20 European basketball.

Key Moments

• First Quarter: Spain started strong, building a 21–15 lead behind the shooting of guard Carlos Ruiz, who hit two early threes.
• Second Quarter: Croatia battled back, tying the game 34–34 at halftime thanks to a 9–2 run capped by a putback dunk from center Marko Horvat.
• Third Quarter: The see-saw continued; Spain led 52–49 after three quarters, with both teams struggling from deep (combined 4/16 from three in the period).
• Fourth Quarter: With the score tied at 68–68 and 90 seconds left, Spanish forward Alejandro Garcia knocked down a step-back three. Croatia missed two potential game-tying threes in the final seconds.

Standout Players

Carlos Ruiz (ESP): The sharpshooter finished with 22 points, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, and added 4 assists.
Marko Horvat (CRO): Croatia’s center recorded a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, but turnovers (5) hurt his team’s cause.

Game Statistics

• Field Goal %: Spain 43% – Croatia 41%
• Three-Point %: Spain 38% (8/21) – Croatia 27% (4/15)
• Free Throws: Spain 16/20 (80%) – Croatia 18/26 (69%)
• Rebounds: Spain 34 – Croatia 38

Impact on Standings

Spain’s victory gives them a crucial early win in Group C, while Croatia will rue missed opportunities. Both teams are considered contenders for the quarterfinals, and this result could prove pivotal in tie-breakers later in the tournament.