Georgia U18 Dominate North Macedonia U18 in Division B Opener

In a commanding performance at the Europe U18 Championship Division B, Georgia U18 defeated North Macedonia U18 83-66 on July 25, 2026. The victory showcased Georgia’s depth and disciplined approach, setting a positive tone for their campaign in the second-tier European youth competition.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, Georgia controlled the tempo, building an early lead that they never relinquished. Their defensive pressure forced North Macedonia into difficult shots, while on offense, ball movement created high-percentage looks. By halftime, Georgia had established a double-digit advantage, and they maintained that margin through the second half despite North Macedonia’s attempts to rally.

Key Performers

• Georgia’s frontcourt was particularly effective, with players combining for strong interior scoring and rebounding. The team’s ability to convert second-chance points proved decisive.
• North Macedonia’s backcourt showed flashes of creativity, but inconsistent shooting and turnovers hindered their ability to close the gap.

Tactical Story

Georgia’s game plan revolved around exploiting mismatches in the paint. They used pick-and-roll actions to draw North Macedonia’s big men away from the basket, then attacked the rim with power. Defensively, Georgia switched effectively on screens, limiting North Macedonia’s perimeter options. The final score line reflected Georgia’s superiority in both half-court sets and transition opportunities.

Impact on the Tournament

This win places Georgia in a strong early position in Division B standings. For North Macedonia, the loss is a learning experience, but their resilience in the second half suggests they can compete if they tighten their execution. Both teams will look to build on this performance as the group stage progresses.