ISTANBUL (FIBA EuroBasket 2017) - Defending champions Spain dashed local hopes after pulling out a gritty 73-56 victory over hosts Turkey in the Round of 16.

Spain had the edge throughout but an inspired Turkey kept fighting back, fueled by the loud near-capacity crowd at Sinan Erdem Arena. Spain's margin was just six points midway through the fourth before Ricky Rubio stepped up with clutch shooting to ensure their bid to repeat as champions remains on track. 

Spain play Germany in the Quarter-Final. 

Turning point: Furkan Korkmaz scored five quick points to almost bring the roof down and reduce Spain's margin to six points midway through the fourth. However, Rubio stepped up with a clutch three and followed up with two free throws to stifle Turkey's momentum. 

Stats-don't-lie: Spain's formidable defense was superb when it had to be, limiting Turkey to just 38 percent from the floor, including a dire 3-of-20 from three. 

Game hero: Rubio shrugged off a quiet opening three quarters to score 12 of his 15 points in the fourth to ensure Spain avoided an anxious finale. Korkmaz, who will play in the NBA this coming season, deserves a mention after repeatedly inspiring his team back into the contest. He finished with 20 points and 5 rebounds. 

They said: "They (Turkey) played tough and played hard. But I'm proud of my team. They controlled their nerves and never panicked. We kept our composure. No, we were not surprised, it was a big win for the German team (against France in the Round of 16). They played great." - Spain coach Sergio Scariolo talking about his team's victory over Turkey and commenting on Germany, their Quarter-Final opponent.  

Highlights 

FIBA