Match Preview
Croatia are expected to have all players available for this clash, led by Real Madrid's forward Mario Hezonja who delivered big numbers so far in the qualifiers. They are tagged heavy favorites against minnow Cyprus.
Cyprus Still Searching for First Victory
Cyprus remain one of the weakest basketball teams in Europe and have already lost every chance to qualify for the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar after losing all four matches.
They stood no chance in the opening week in late November, getting crushed by Croatia 100-60 on the road and then Germany at home 83-64 (their best effort so far), while also losing to Israel 94-54 in the third round.
The reverse tie against Israel in their most recent appearance didn’t bring anything new, as they lost at home 83-54 while shooting just 32% from the field (6/29 from three-point range) and were outrebounded 48-32.
Croatia Closing In on Top Spot
Croatia can approach this match in relaxed fashion and prepare for the deciding battle against Israel in the final round, currently sitting top of Group E with a 3-1 record.
After crushing Cyprus 100-60 in the opener, the second-round clash against Israel was supposed to be a tight battle, but the Croats won comfortably 85-71 on a neutral court in Riga, then backed that up with another win against Germany 93-88 at home.
The reverse tie in Bonn was quite dramatic, with the hosts claiming a 91-89 victory in overtime after Croatia wasted a nine-point lead they had at half time. Mario Hezonja had an amazing performance here with 30 points, seven rebounds and three assists.