Croatia Dominates Israel to Claim Top Spot in World Cup Qualifiers

Croatia's men's basketball team dominated Israel with a decisive 103-75 victory in Osijek, clinching the top spot in Group E of the first phase of the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers. The win, fueled by a strong offensive performance, ensures Croatia advances with momentum.

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Seven Croatian players scored in double digits, led by Ivica Zubac with 18, to which he added 10 rebounds and four assists.

Seven Croatian players reached double-digit scoring, with Ivica Zubac leading the charge with 18 points, complemented by 10 rebounds and four assists. Captain Dario Šarić also delivered a strong performance, contributing 17 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Mario Hezonja recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Antonio Jordano and David Škara each scored 13 points, and Luka Božić and Roko Badžim added 11 apiece.

The Croatian squad, coached by Tomislav Mijatović, established an early lead, scoring 19-4 within the first seven offensive possessions. The starting lineup of Hezonja, Jaleen Smith, Badžim, Šarić, and Zubac dictated a fast pace that Israel struggled to match. Despite a brief second-quarter rally by Israel to narrow the gap to 10 points, Croatia's reserves maintained the high level of play, extending their lead to 16 points by halftime (47-31).

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Captain Dario Šarić combined 17 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists, and Mario Hezonja also had a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Croatia extended its advantage to over 20 points by the end of the third quarter and reached its largest lead of 30 points (92-62) in the 36th minute. Antonio Jordano's three-pointer sealed the final score at 103-75. In the other Group E match, Germany defeated Cyprus 111-79. Both Croatia and Germany finished the first phase with 5-1 records, but Croatia secured first place due to their superior head-to-head record. Israel finished third with a 2-4 record and will also advance to the second phase.

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The chosen ones of Tomislav Mijatović opened the game brilliantly, were without misses in the first seven offensive actions and gained a 15-point lead by halftime.