Italy rise above the reigning champions

HELSINKI (FIBA U20 European Championship 2016) – There will be no repeat success for Serbia at the FIBA U20 European Championship after the holders were knocked out by Italy in the Round of 16 on Wednesday.

The reigning champions led by 10 points heading into the fourth quarter before Italy, inspired by the stellar guard play of Federico Mussini, connected on five three-pointers in as many minutes to turn the game on its head.

The Italians then saw out a 70-65 victory from the free-throw line with Diego Flaccadori leading all scorers with 20 points.

Flaccadori and Co. will face Turkey in the last eight after Omer Ugrurata’s side overcame France 82-75 to remain the only unbeaten side in the competition.

There was heartbreak for the hosts, however, as they were eliminated by Lithuania, who advance to a last-eight date with Czech Republic. 

Slovenia pushed the Czechs all the way before eventually coming up just short in overtime.

Latvia’s balanced offence was too much for Sweden and their reward for a 66-53 triumph is a meeting with Spain, who cruised to victory against Hungary. 

Germany and Ukraine will also face off on Friday after completing the last-eight line-up with impressive Round of 16 successes against Israel and Belgium respectively.

For more on all of today's action visit the #FIBAU20Europe Live Feed. 

Wednesday’s results

Turkey 82-75 France

Sweden 53-66 Latvia

Spain 87-66 Hungary

Czech Republic 79-77 Slovenia (OT)

Finland 62-81 Lithuania

Serbia 65-70 Italy

Germany 89-73 Israel

Ukraine 95-73 Belgium

FIBA