Sweden's EuroBasket Journey Ends in Narrow Defeat to Turkey

In a thrilling round of 16 matchup at EuroBasket 2025, Sweden's men's basketball team delivered a commendable performance but ultimately fell short against Turkey, losing 85-79. This match marked Sweden's first progression into the knockout stage of the European Championship, having never before advanced beyond the group stage.

Sweden began the game with a strong showing, leading by as much as seven points and finishing the first half at 42-37. Key players like Simon Birgander, who contributed eight points and six rebounds, were pivotal in establishing an early advantage. Despite facing off against star players from Turkey, including Alperen Sengün and Shane Larkin, Sweden effectively limited their scoring opportunities in the first half.

As the second half commenced, Turkey rallied to regain control, outscoring Sweden 26-13 in the third quarter. Controversy struck during a crucial moment when a refereeing decision reversed Sengün’s fifth foul, which could have altered the outcome drastically. This decision sparked frustration among Swedish players, with Birgander expressing his discontent, stating, "The referees have no respect throughout the tournament. I am so incredibly tired of them." Team captain Ludvig Håkansson, who scored 16 points, echoed these sentiments, suggesting that referees might favor NBA players by not recognizing the skill of the Swedish squad.

Despite trailing late in the game by as much as eleven points, Sweden made a remarkable comeback attempt, tying the game at 76-76. The determination and potential displayed by Sweden in this match have left a strong impression, signaling their emergence as contenders in European basketball. Though the Swedish team has exited the tournament, their performance has been lauded, showcasing their growth and resilience on the international stage.

As the EuroBasket 2025 concludes, Sweden's players and coaching staff reflect on a historic campaign, reinforcing their aspirations for future international competitions.