Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EuroBasket Women match.
The final match of the day in Brno sees a meeting between Montenegro and Belgium. Could the backing of the Czech crowd help the nominal hosts limit the damage? That seems unlikely, given the clear disparity in current form.
Montenegro (women)
Expectations were low for Montenegro heading into the Women's EuroBasket, and their opening group-stage display did little to challenge that narrative. They were comprehensively outplayed by the Czech Republic (44:89). That result followed two lopsided losses in recent friendlies — a 41:79 setback against Italy and a 42:62 defeat to Slovenia — reinforcing the notion that this squad may be out of its depth at this level.
Belgium (women)
Belgium started their EuroBasket campaign with an emphatic 81:52 win over Portugal, putting in a clinical performance at both ends of the court. Offensively, they were composed and efficient, converting 47.2% of their 53 field-goal attempts. Their defensive effort was equally sharp, forcing 10 turnovers and restricting Portugal to just three free-throw attempts throughout the game.
Montenegro (women) vs Belgium (women) Prediction
Based on their opening performance, Montenegro appear unlikely to trouble the stronger sides in the tournament. Having lost by 45 points to the Czech Republic, the challenge of facing Belgium, who look in commanding form, appears even more daunting. A dominant victory for Belgium seems inevitable.
