HAMBURG (Germany) - Spain and cp-hosts Germany both took the wins they needed to advance to the FIBA Women's EuroBasket Quarter-Finals on an intense last day of Group D action.
Spain were the first to book their spot and ended up breathing a sigh of relief after scraping an overtime triumph against a heartbroken Sweden team that are now heading home.
Germany followed up by easing past Great Britain and putting the icing on the cake for the home fans who came out in force yet again, this time celebrating their team's progression to the last eight in successive editions.
Drama as Spain win in overtime to slip into Quarter-Finals
It was far from straightforward and Spain were almost on the wrong end of an upset, but they eventually outlasted Sweden 78-75 in overtime to advance to the next phase of the competition in Piraeus. The victory was built around their defensive effort, importantly blocking a number of shots in regulation to avoid defeat.
There was also a key 20-point contribution from Alba Torrens before she fouled out of the contest. Meanwhile Mariona Ortiz came up with what was effectively a game-winning play with 20 seconds left of overtime as she sliced to the basket for a fine finish under pressure.
Klara Lundquist was incredible in defeat and flirted with a triple-double after putting up 21 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists.
Go-time for Germany as they glide past Great Britain
Germany are looking forward to landing in Piraeus for the final phase after they took the last remaining Quarter-Finals ticket with an 80-67 win against Great Britain. A rapid fire start blew their opponents away and gave them a cushion to complete the job - even when the Brits threatened to launch a rescue mission.
There were four different Germany players who logged double-digit scoring returns and that was a central pillar for success. Young Frieda Buhner took the limelight with another nice show of 17 points and 7 boards, with Leonie Fiebich adding a typical all-action line of 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Meanwhile, Savannah Wilkinson excelled in defeat with 17 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.
FIBA