Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EuroBasket match.
In the second quarter-finals tie, Lithuania meet Greece, and this looks like the most intriguing contest at this stage. A near textbook system, as devised by Rimas Kurtinaitis, faces Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Lithuania
Lithuania beat Latvia (88:79) in the round of 16. While Latvia tried to shut down Jonas Valančiūnas, Deividas Sirvydis and Rokas Velička stepped up, combining for 39 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists. It is also important to note the team’s excellent defence: Latvia shot only 40% from the field and 31.4% from beyond the arc.
Greece
Greece scraped past Israel (84:79) in the first round. Giannis Antetokounmpo carried the load with 37 points and 10 rebounds. However, the supporting cast largely watched on: only Kostas Sloukas reached double figures with 11 points, and the squad shot just 16% from beyond the arc. At the same time, Greece’s defence could only dream of such statistics: Israel shot 47.1% in the paint and 40% from beyond the arc.
Lithuania vs Greece Prediction
Greece are viewed as clear favourites, yet the same was said before the game against Israel. Lithuania’s structure in offence and defence has every chance to cause problems for Giannis Antetokounmpo and to make Greece work hard.
