Slovenia Edge France 91–89 in Semi-Final Thriller to Reach EuroBasket U20 Final

Slovenia Edge France 91–89 in Semi-Final Thriller to Reach EuroBasket U20 Final

Slovenia are through to the final of the FIBA U20 EuroBasket 2026 after an unforgettable 91–89 victory over France in Ljubljana on July 18. In front of an outstanding home crowd at Arena Stožice, the hosts survived a dramatic finish to remain unbeaten and keep their title dream alive.

A Semi-Final Decided in the Final Seconds

The contest between Slovenia and France delivered everything a EuroBasket semi-final should have: intensity, momentum swings, big shots and a finish that kept the Arena Stožice crowd on the edge of their seats until the final second.

Slovenia made a strong start and took a 52–47 lead into halftime after winning both of the opening quarters. The hosts played with confidence, moved the ball well and found ways to score against a talented French side that had also entered the semi-finals unbeaten.

France responded after the break, taking the third quarter 23–18 and setting up a dramatic final ten minutes. Neither team was able to create a comfortable advantage, as the lead changed hands repeatedly in a tense and high-quality battle.

Slovenia Hold Their Nerve

With the game on the line, Slovenia showed remarkable composure. The home side won the fourth quarter 21–19 and held on to claim a thrilling 91–89 victory.

The game featured 10 lead changes and 12 tied scores, underlining just how evenly matched the two teams were. France held their biggest lead of eight points, while Slovenia's largest advantage was seven, but the hosts found the decisive answers when the pressure was at its highest.

Slovenia finished the game with strong shooting numbers, making 51 percent of their field-goal attempts. The team also connected on 46.4 percent of its three-point shots, while the players showed great determination in a physical and demanding contest.

Padjen Leads Slovenia Again

Mark Padjen once again played an important role for Slovenia, recording an efficiency rating of 22. His leadership and calmness in key moments helped Slovenia navigate the difficult final stages of the match and secure one of the biggest wins of the tournament.

France battled until the end and had opportunities to turn the game around, but Slovenia protected their narrow advantage and celebrated a historic home victory with the 2,800 spectators in Arena Stožice.

Final Against Serbia Awaits

With the win, Slovenia advance to the gold-medal game, where they will face Serbia. Serbia secured their final place with a 72–65 victory over Spain in the other semi-final.

Slovenia now have a perfect 6–0 record at the FIBA U20 EuroBasket 2026 and will have the chance to compete for the title in front of their home fans in Ljubljana.

The final between Slovenia and Serbia will take place on Sunday, July 19, at Arena Stožice in Ljubljana.

Source: FIBA U20 EuroBasket 2026 – France vs Slovenia