The Swiss team took its revenge in the 3rd match of the 2nd pre-qualifying round of the 2027 World Cup. The men of Ilias Papatheodorou dominated Slovakia 85-72.
The mission that presented itself to the Helvetians was simple: winning, but with a number of points. It was at least thirteen after losing … thirteen points in Bratislava in the first match of this three-poule at three where each point counts.
And that’s exactly what happened. Led by a splendid Selim Fofana (24 points) and a very good Granvorka (15 pts), the Swiss managed to level the brand between the two games. They can say thank you to the address of Yoan Granvorka, excellent with his 3 pts basket 11 seconds from the mermaid. The men of Papatheodorou were able to defend at the best time and enjoy the fatigue of the Slovia on the end.
At the 33rd, a basket of Toni Rocak even offered 14 bonus points (69-55) to Switzerland. Have Papatheodorou players were too confident? The fact remains that the Slovaks returned to six lengths (71-65) under the leadership of Timotej Malvevec, already decisive to go, and author of 22 points. Fortunately for Switzerland, three Slovaks had to join the locker rooms earlier than expected with five faults.
There are two matches in this group where the first two access qualifications for the World Cup. Switzerland meets Ukraine on Saturday in Riga, while the last match will see the Ukrainians are struggling with the Slovaks in Bratislava next Wednesday.
/ATS