Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EuroBasket match.
The play-offs of EuroBasket are about to begin, and the Round of 16 opens with a clash between Turkey and Sweden in Riga. On paper, the favourite is clear, but in knockout games underdogs often find ways to spring surprises.
Turkey
The Turkish national team cruised through their group, winning all five matches, including a stunning 95:90 triumph over Serbia — the tournament’s main favourite. Alperen Şengün is in phenomenal form, averaging 21.3 points, 9.6 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game. On top of that, the experienced Shane Larkin continues to deliver in clutch moments. Against Serbia he scored 23 points and added nine assists.
Sweden
The Swedish national team reached the play-offs not without a slice of luck. Out of five games, they managed just one win, and that came against fellow outsiders Great Britain (78:59). More importantly, against top-level opponents their defence offered little resistance: Germany scored 105 points, Finland 93. For Turkey, that’s a gift.
Turkey vs Sweden Prediction
The gulf in class is vast, so we don’t expect much intrigue in this match. Turkey should have no problem wrapping up victory and booking their place in the quarter-finals.
