Portugal’s women’s national basketball team delivered a dominant 100-70 victory over Iceland on Tuesday, taking a significant step towards the second qualification phase for the EuroBasket Women 2027 tournament.
The decisive win, secured at home in Barreiro, is critical as Iceland is considered a direct competitor for second place in Group G. This position is essential for advancing to the ultimate qualification round.
Portugal’s success was largely attributed to an aggressive defensive strategy and highly efficient offense. This culminated in a pivotal 36-12 second quarter that effectively secured the game by halftime.
The team’s performance, which saw them reach 100 points, marks a strong push to return to the EuroBasket competition after their debut in 2025.
Sara Guerreiro led Portugal’s scoring with 16 points, including a three-pointer that marked the team’s 100th point. Márcia da Costa, playing for a local club in Barreiro, and Maria João Correia each contributed 15 points to the victory.
Portugal built an early lead, executing an 8-0 run in the first quarter that forced an Icelandic timeout. They concluded the opening period with a 19-14 advantage.
The second quarter showcased Portugal’s offensive explosion, beginning with another 8-0 run that featured two three-pointers from Carolina Cruz. The team’s defensive intensity also led to nine steals during this dominant period.
By halftime, Portugal held a commanding 55-26 lead, having effectively put the game out of reach.
Although Portugal eased its pace in the third quarter, coach Ricardo Vasconcelos’ team maintained a substantial 29-point advantage, closing the period at 80-51.
The final quarter was less fluid, marked by increased errors from both sides, but Portugal comfortably held onto its significant lead.
Portugal is competing in Group G, having previously faced losses against Serbia, a team described as “apparently unreachable.”
The two teams are scheduled for a rematch on March 17, 2026, in Iceland. This will be the final game of the current qualification phase.
Iceland’s top scorers included Sara Run Hinriksdottir with 19 points, Rebekka Steingrimsdottir with 16 points, and Danielle Rodríguez with 14 points.
The game was held at the Pavilhão Municipal Luís de Carvalho in Barreiro, Portugal. Approximately 800 spectators attended.
Ricardo Vasconcelos coaches Portugal, while Pekka Saminen leads Iceland. The game was officiated by Esperanza Mendoza of Spain, Romana Rea Car of Austria, and Laure Coanus of France.