Germany Defeats Finland to Secure EuroBasket Final Spot

In a commanding performance, Germany overcame Finland 98-86 to earn a place in the EuroBasket final on Sunday, halting Finland’s historic run in the tournament. Point guard Dennis Schröder led the German charge with 26 points and 12 assists, orchestrating a potent offense that Finland struggled to counter.

One of four tournament co-hosts alongside Cyprus, Poland, and Latvia, Finland reached the semifinals for the first time, displaying promising play early on. However, the reigning FIBA World Cup champions quickly took control of the game.

Franz Wagner contributed significantly with 20 points in the first half, helping Germany establish a 61-47 advantage at halftime, with Schröder providing eight assists to dismantle the Finnish defense.

Despite a spirited Finnish comeback late in the third quarter, narrowing the deficit to six, Germany’s tightened defense ultimately stifled their momentum. Finnish star Lauri Markkanen was effectively contained, scoring just 16 points and making only two out of nine attempts from beyond the arc.

Germany will face the winner of Friday’s semifinal between Greece and Turkey in the championship game, while Finland prepares for the bronze medal contest against the semifinal’s losing side.