Greece defeated by Portugal in 2026 World Cup qualifying match

Greece lost to Portugal with a final score of 71-56 at the Sunel Arena, concluding the first phase of the 2026 FIBA World Cup qualifiers. Portugal took an early lead, ending the first quarter 19-15 and the first half 28-23. The visitors extended their lead throughout the third quarter, reaching a 20-point advantage at 62-42 early in the fourth. Greece struggled offensively, shooting only 12.5% from the three-point line in the first half and losing the rebounding battle 27-19 by halftime. Key performers for Greece included Moraitis, Toliopoulos, and Charalampopoulos, but their efforts were insufficient to bridge the gap. Following this result, Greece finishes the first round with a 3-3 record. The team now advances to the second phase, scheduled for late August, where they will face Spain, Georgia, and Ukraine.