For Slovenia, this is the fifth defeat in seven matches, which means that its chances of qualifying for the World Cup in China are now only theoretical. The best players on the Slovenian team were Luka Rupnik with 19 points and captain Gašper Vidmar, who scored 12 points. In addition to seven jumps, he also lost five balls.

Slovenia was much closer to victory in Riga than the outcome shows. The Latvians made a decisive advantage in the last quarter, which they won with 25-14. In key moments, Rado Trifunović's team made some incredible mistakes that the hosts took advantage of.

Ukraine surprisingly beat Spain 76-65 in Group I, while Turkey won 79-69 against Montenegro. Spain remains at the top with six victories, while Turkey and Latvia have five, and Slovenia is last with two victories and five defeats. The first three teams will travel to the World Championship.

Slovenia will play another match during September’s qualifying round for the World Championship. On Monday, 17th September, exactly one year after its historic success, Slovenia will face Turkey in the Stožice Arena.