By Antigoni Zachari / info@eurohoops.net
The second round of the FIBA World Cup qualifiers “windows” is upon us. Teams will fight to seal a spot in the 2019 World Cup, starting off this evening.
Six duels are scheduled for Thursday’s European qualifiers. Let’s take a look below!
Bulgaria – France (18:00 GMT +3)
France currently ranks first in Group K, with a total of six wins in respective games and looks to expand its winning streak this September.
On the other end, Bulgaria’s 2-4 record leaves no choice but to try and turn the tables around in order to qualify.
Czech Republic – Russia (18:00 GMT +2)
The Czechs will face Russia in the presence of Jan Vesely and Tomas Satoransky, a huge boost to remain in the qualification race. Czech Republic’s 5-1 record places them behind France in Group K.
Russia holds an even record of wins and losses from the first round (3-3) and seeks to remain in the top 3 of the group.
Finland – Bosnia and Herzegovina (19:00 GMT +3)
Finland will miss Lauri Markkanen this time around and will have to overcome victory-hungry Dzanan Musa and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Finnish currently hold a 3-3 record (same as Russia) and rank 4th in Group K, while Bosnia follows at the bottom of the group with just two victories from the first round.
Estonia – Germany (19:00 GMT +3)
With Dennis Schroder and Maxi Kleber on board, Germany’s job against Estonia should be fairly easy on Thursday evening.
The Germans finished the first round undefeated and lead Group L along with also undefeated Greece. Things are tougher for Estonia, that has to fight back from the bottom of the group and improve its 2-4 record.