The scoreboard showed another tough result for Portugal’s Women’s U20 basketball team. On Monday, they faced Slovenia in Matosinhos, losing 71-58. This game was the third match of their group stage in the European Championship. Despite the loss, Portugal’s young athletes showed real fight on the court.
One player truly stood out. Forward Ana Pinheiro shined for the Portuguese side. She scored 17 points, grabbed five rebounds, and played for 29 minutes. Her performance was a definite highlight in a challenging game for the team.
The group stage has now wrapped up, and it wasn’t easy for Portugal. They finished with a record of only losses. Before falling to Slovenia, they also lost to Germany 83-72 and France 91-59. It was a learning experience against some strong competitors.
Here’s the interesting part: even with three losses, Portugal still moved on. Every team from all four groups automatically makes it to the Round of 16. This unique rule gives all teams a second chance. Portugal finished fourth in Group B, so they’re ready for their next big test.
Their next game is on Wednesday. Portugal will face Belgium, the top team from Group A. It promises to be a very difficult match. The knockout stage kicks off, and the stakes are much higher now.
Here are the other Round of 16 matchups set for the tournament:
- Slovenia will play Lithuania.
- Spain is set to meet Germany.
- France will take on Israel.
- Italy faces Latvia.
- The Netherlands goes up against Iceland.
- Sweden will compete with Poland.
- Turkey is matched against the Czech Republic.