A brief review after four matches played in our group :
Polska U21 vs. Belgium U21 99 - 119
I was quite worried before our match against Poland. I considered them to be our main rivals and that's why I preferred to play with greater enthusiasm. I should have followed the changes to the Polish roster more closely, as the coach had taken several players out before the match. Key points from this first match: De Laet made nine shotblocks and the Nijs-De Laet duo was strong on rebounds. Our guards secured the victory. Coffé and Bayet combined for 42 points, and our very own Limonta added 26 points. Good win but everything still needs to be done.
Belgium U21 vs. Lietuva U21 76 - 104
Match against the leader of our group: the aim was to test ourselves against a stronger team, as victory was out of reach. A 28-point defeat and a Lithuanian attack that ran perfectly with almost 50% success rate on field goals and three-pointers. In opposite, we had little success in attack. We were able to gather some interesting information during this match.
Sverige U21 vs. Belgium U21 100 - 122
Crucial match against Sweden, who had started the championship with two wins and one defeat. At half-time, we were leading by 8 points, and Belgium pulled away in the fourth quarter, scoring 18 more points (38-20). We played with equal enthusiasm and the victory was clearly welcome. Our inside duo had a great game in all areas (they combined for 30 points, 17 rebounds including 2 offensive rebounds, 12 assists and 4 blocks). They clearly helped us out in several areas. Bayet was on fire with 30 points scored.
Our next opponent is Bulgaria tonight! Go, young lads!
Interesting facts in the other groups:
Pool A : A big match is coming up tonight between host country Germany and Greece. In fact, the top four teams all have four wins and are all playing each other tonight, with Romania versus Estonia as well.
Pool D: a very complex, very tight and high-level group. The group of death with five teams that could potentially advance to the second round. We are watching our neighbours struggle, which does not make me particularly happy. Slovakia and Bosnia are doing well, but there are still matches to be played.
Group F: big matches also coming up with Spain set to play Hungary and Croatia in quick succession.
Pool C: Everything will be decided between England and Israel for second place, Ukraine will finish first. England beat Israel (90-74) but the Israelis have the advantage on points difference. However, the top two teams (leaderboard) still have to face each other.
Group B: The reigning European and world champions are top of their group but still have to play Finland and Russia. Second place will be decided between the latter two.