The youth European basketball championship U-20 is continuing in Slovakia, where the Ukrainian national team demonstrated character and skill in the quarterfinal match against the Irish team. The game turned out to be tense and dramatic, but the Ukrainian basketball players managed to snatch victory with a 10-point difference — 72:62.
Bright start and opponent's response
The Ukrainian team started the match very confidently, immediately taking the initiative. Within the first few minutes of the game, they organized a powerful 12:3 run, setting a high tempo for the entire match. Maxim Gryshchuk made a special impression, scoring an impressive dunk right at the beginning, boosting the morale of both the team and the fans.
However, the Irish did not give up without a fight. The opponent managed to pull themselves together, tighten up their defense, and executed a series of five consecutive blocks, which allowed them to narrow the gap. The teams went into the first break with a score of 17:13 in favor of the Ukrainian national team.
Tough middle and Irish comeback
The second quarter was dictated by the opponent. The Irish team actively entered the game, creating serious problems for the Ukrainians. Nevertheless, under the guidance of coach Dmytro Zabirchenko, the Ukrainian national team managed to maintain the lead and preserve their advantage by halftime — 35:28.
The third period proved to be the most difficult for the Ukrainians. Ireland staged an impressive comeback and even took the lead before the final quarter, holding a four-point advantage — 47:43. It seemed that victory was slipping away, but the Ukrainian team did not give up.
Hard-fought victory in the final quarter
In the decisive period, the Ukrainian basketball players showed true character. They scored 29 points in the quarter, completely turning the tide of the game and snatching victory with a score of 72:62. This result was made possible thanks to the excellent performance of key players.
Outstanding performances by leaders
Special attention deserves Maxim Gryshchuk and Yegor Suschkin, who played excellent games. Gryshchuk recorded a double-double, scoring 28 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Suschkin brought the team 23 points, becoming one of the main heroes of the victory. It is also worth noting the contribution of other players: Gogulenko (5 points, 6 rebounds), Korol (4 points, 6 rebounds), and Yemu (2 points, 8 rebounds).
What's next?
In the semi-finals of the EuroBasket-2026 U-20, the Ukrainian youth national team will face the winner of the Portugal – Hungary pair, whose match will take place today. For the Ukrainian team, this will be an opportunity to prove their strength and continue the fight for the top prizes of the tournament.
