Israel extends winning streak in EuroBasket 2025 in close match with Belgium, advancing to Round of 16

The Israeli basketball team continued its winning streak after its sensational victory over France on Sunday, downing Belgium 92-89 in a close match at EuroBasket 2025, advancing to the Round of 16. 

Deni Avdija put in another stellar performance on Tuesday with 22 points as Israel advanced to the knockout stage. 

The Portland Trail Blazers guard played brilliantly against France on Sunday, posting 23 points as Israel stunned the Olympic silver medalist 82-69. Maccabi Tel Aviv center Roman Sorkin gave a strong supporting performance with 18 points to keep team Blue and White ahead of Belgium. 

Israel started the game excellently, and led by 21 points at one stage during the game in the Polish city of Katowice. Deni Avdija and Yam Madar showed their coordination as the Israeli team finished the first quarter with a 23-15 lead. Blue and White also dominated the second quarter, ending the first half with a promising 51-36. 

The third quarter was a closer fight, but Israel kept its lead, landing the victory 71-54. Belgium came back strong in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Israeli side.

Israel held on, and with eight seconds left on the clock, Yam Madar's free throw ensured a hard-fought victory, putting Israel at the top of Group D for the moment. Israel’s final position will only be determined after the last game, with France scheduled to face undefeated Poland later on Tuesday and Israel facing Slovenia and its star player, Luka Doncic, on Thursday. 

Israel’s qualifying win marks the first time in a decade that the team has made it through to the Round of 16, with its last appearance being in 2015. The Round of 16 is scheduled to take place in Latvia, starting Sept. 7.