Latvia has defeated Italy in the game valuable for the 5-8 places convincing and showing that they could be one of the semi-finalists of this World Cup.
Italy started the game really well finding themselves in a five-point advantage in the first period. Despite the slow start, Latvia started to collect points and managed to close the first period not at a big disadvantage. Italy was leading 26-18 in the first period and this meant for the other periods.
The Italians came with high morale in the second period and it seemed that they would win the game with ease. But Latvia managed to win the second period 16-28 and turn the match into their favor. Italy exceeded the advantage by +11 in the second period, but Latvia closed the period with a four-point advantage.
This is thanks to the form of Andrejs Grazulis who scored 28 in this game, giving one assist and grabbing 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, the best player from Italy was Datome with 20 points and one assist.
Latvia sent their game in +10 in the third period and closed the period in a +7 advantage. The third period was decisive for the fate of the game.
Five points of Grazulis in the fourth period made Latvia keep the advantage and with the last three points he sealed the result of the match 82-87. This is a moral victory for Latvia which made an astonishing journey in this World Cup.
They did a brilliant game with Germany and it is regretting for them to go home after the good games they made. Latvia has quality players and the fact they beat a good team like Italy shows that they can bring more on the court.
Italy on the other hand, had a very difficult match with the United States and despite that, they played really good games in this tournament. They go home after a good World Cup.