Europe, and especially Serbia are still in shock after one of the biggest upsets in EuroBasket history.
Finland eliminated Serbia, the tournament’s pre-event favorite, in a stunning 92-86 victory in the round of 16. What makes the triumph even more remarkable is that just three days earlier, Finland had lost to Germany by 30 points.
French outlet L’Equipe called Finland “the ruthless giant-killer,” highlighting Lauri Markkanen and Elias Valtonen, who emerged as heroes in the final minutes. L’Equipe added, “Nikola Jokic wasn’t enough to carry Serbia.”
Claim Now Spain’s Marca went even further, publishing a bold headline: “Earthquake at EuroBasket: Serbia Eliminated!” The outlet analyzed the loss bluntly, pointing out that Finland had knocked out the reigning world silver medalist and Olympic bronze winner in a “monumental and brutal” performance.
The article noted the questions now surrounding Serbia’s head coach Svetislav Pesic and key players, including Jokic, who may reconsider representing the national team after the shocking defeat.
Catalonia’s Mundo Deportivo described the game simply: “Jokic’s team couldn’t handle the first real pressure of the tournament,” with a subheadline praising Finland: “Markkanen and Valtonen hit and knocked out the favorites.”
Even specialized media outlets and FIBA’s official social media reacted instantly. BasketNews launched a podcast titled “The Biggest Upset of the Century,” reflecting a sentiment echoed across the basketball world.
WE HAVE THE FIRST MAJOR UPSET!
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) September 6, 2025
Serbia is OUT of the tournament! ❌🇷🇸
Read more 👇 https://t.co/CrGFTsDFhn pic.twitter.com/9CYhmpQeHu
Balkan media were equally stunned. SportSport.ba ran the headline: “Sensation of Sensations! Serbia Out of EuroBasket!”
Croatian outlets didn’t hold back either: Jutarnji List wrote, “Complete shock in the neighborhood: Serbia eliminated in dramatic fashion,” while Index.hr called it, “Serbia shockingly out in the round of 16.”
Finland’s victory isn’t just a win—it’s a statement. The team has transformed from heavy underdogs to serious contenders, opening a path toward the EuroBasket final and leaving fans, analysts, and the basketball world reeling.
More EuroBasket picks:
EuroBasket 2025 – Rosters of all national teams
EuroBasket 2025, starting on August 27, will be the central topic of discussion in the coming period, alongside basketball transfers in Europe and worldwide.
National team gatherings across the Old Continent have already begun, and coaches have announced extended player lists, with only 12 players from each team set to secure their plane tickets for EuroBasket 2025.
EuroBasket 2025 will be hosted by four countries – Cyprus, Poland, Finland, and Latvia.
The final phase of the competition, meaning all national team matches after the group stage, will be played in Latvia, specifically in Riga, with the final scheduled for September 14.
