Georgia pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat Denmark 75-69 in the first round of the EuroBasket 2025 qualifiers on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 15 points at halftime, but rallied in the second half to secure a crucial win in Group G.
Lundberg and Shengelia shine for their teams
The game featured a duel between two teammates from Virtus Segafredo Bologna, Gabriel Lundberg and Tornike Shengelia. Lundberg led Denmark with 24 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Shengelia had 27 points, eight rebounds and three assists for Georgia.
Lundberg was unstoppable in the first half, scoring 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting, including four three-pointers. He helped Denmark build a 45-30 lead at the break, as Georgia struggled to contain the visitors’ offense.
Georgia turns the tide with defense and energy
However, Georgia came out with a different attitude in the third quarter, increasing their defensive intensity and energy. They went on a 14-2 run to cut the deficit to three points, and then took the lead with a three-pointer by Giorgi Tsintsadze.
Georgia outscored Denmark 26-9 in the third period, holding them to just 3-of-16 from the field and forcing seven turnovers. Shengelia scored 10 points in the quarter, while Goga Bitadze added eight points and four blocks.
Denmark fights back but falls short in the end
Denmark did not give up easily, and managed to tie the game at 64-64 with four minutes left in the fourth quarter. Lundberg and Darko Jukic hit some clutch shots to keep their team in the game, but Georgia had the final say.
Georgia scored the last seven points of the game, with Shengelia making a layup and a free throw, and Bitadze sealing the win with a dunk and a block. Georgia celebrated their first victory in the qualifiers, while Denmark suffered their first loss.
What’s next for both teams?
Georgia will face Serbia on Thursday, hoping to build on their momentum and challenge the group favorites. Serbia won their first game against Finland 88-80, with Bogdan Bogdanovic scoring 27 points.
Denmark will try to bounce back against Finland on Thursday, looking to repeat their performance from the first half. Finland lost their first game against Serbia, despite 22 points and 10 rebounds from Lauri Markkanen.
