Riga, Latvia – The dust has settled on two riveting EuroBasket 2025 semifinal clashes, leaving fans anticipating a high-stakes championship game. Germany, the reigning World Champions, will face a revitalized Turkey in a final showdown that promises both tactical brilliance and raw athletic power. The journey to this point was anything but predictable, marked by strategic masterclasses and, for some, the surprising limitations of star power.
Germany`s Relentless March: A Date with History Beckons
In a contest that showcased their formidable consistency, Germany secured their spot in the final by overcoming a spirited Finland with a decisive 98-86 victory. The scoreboard, however, doesn`t quite convey the methodical efficiency with which the Germans dismantled their opponents. Lead architect Dennis Schröder orchestrated the offense with his characteristic blend of speed and precision, while Franz Wagner continued to assert his growing dominance, finding mismatches and converting crucial possessions. Together, they formed the spearhead of a German attack that, while occasionally slow to ignite, consistently found its rhythm and exploited every available vulnerability.
This German squad, now eyeing its third European final, stands on the precipice of an extraordinary achievement. Should they claim the EuroBasket crown, they would etch their name into history as only the fourth nation to achieve the elusive World-European double – a testament to their sustained excellence and the depth of talent cultivated by coach Mumbru. Their ability to “incassare” (absorb) pressure, wait for the opportune moment, and then strike with clinical force has become their signature.
Finland`s Valiant Effort: Markkanen`s Uncharacteristic Struggles
Finland, the tournament`s surprise package, fought admirably but ultimately succumbed to Germany`s superior depth and defensive tenacity. Despite the best efforts of forward Nkamohoua, who contributed 21 points, the Finnish challenge was significantly hampered by an uncharacteristically subdued performance from their talisman, Lauri Markkanen. Often the engine of their offense, Markkanen struggled to find his shooting touch, finishing a frustrating 6-for-17 from the field. The German defense, honed to perfection, ensured that the “spark” Finland desperately sought never fully ignited. This defeat relegates Finland to the bronze medal match, where they will face Greece.
Turkish Delight: Shutting Down a Greek Titan
The second semifinal delivered a seismic shockwave through the tournament as Turkey delivered a stunning, virtually flawless performance to overwhelmingly defeat Greece 94-68. From the opening tip, coach Ataman`s Turkish squad demonstrated an ironclad defensive strategy that completely stifled the Greek offense, forcing 12 turnovers by halftime alone. It was a suffocating display, turning the concept of a “star-studded lineup” into mere footnotes on the stat sheet.
The Giannis Conundrum: A Star Silenced
The most striking aspect of Turkey`s dominance was their effective neutralization of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Widely regarded as one of the world`s most unstoppable forces, the “Greek Freak” found himself largely shackled, his usual explosive drives and dominant post-play rendered ineffective against a resolute Turkish interior defense. His final tally of 12 points and 12 rebounds, respectable on paper, arrived mostly when the game`s outcome was already decided, a bittersweet consolation in a match where Greece never truly found its footing. It seems even titans, when confronted with a collective defensive will, can be reduced to mere mortals.
On the offensive end, Turkey`s emerging stars shone brightest. Alperen Sengun, with his versatile big-man play, was a constant threat, bagging 9 rebounds and 6 assists by the half. However, the undisputed revelation of the night was Ercan Osmani, who delivered a stratospheric performance, ending with a game-high 28 points. His offensive explosion, coupled with Sengun`s all-around game and the steady hand of Larkin, propelled Turkey to a commanding lead that they never relinquished. This monumental victory marks Turkey`s return to the EuroBasket final for the first time in 24 years, a moment of profound significance for Turkish basketball.
The Bronze Medal Bout: A Battle for Redemption
While Germany and Turkey prepare for their gold medal clash, Finland and Greece will meet in the bronze medal game on Sunday afternoon. Both teams, having tasted the bitter pill of semifinal defeat, will be eager to salvage some pride and conclude their tournament on a high note. For Giannis and Markkanen, it offers a chance for redemption, a final opportunity to demonstrate the brilliance that typically defines their play.
Looking Ahead: A Final of Contrasting Fortunes and Shared Ambition
The EuroBasket 2025 final between Germany and Turkey promises to be a fascinating encounter. Will Germany complete their historic World-European double, solidifying their status as an undisputed basketball powerhouse? Or will Turkey, fueled by their stunning upset and a new generation of talent, cap off a Cinderella run with a championship trophy, ending a nearly quarter-century wait? Riga is set to witness a clash of strategic minds, burgeoning stars, and the relentless pursuit of European basketball supremacy. Prepare for a grand finale where legacies will be forged, and one nation will stand atop the European basketball world.
Elton Marrow 
Gideon Holt