Montenegro achieved a remarkable victory in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, defeating Greece 67-65 in a thrilling match held in Athens. This win marks Montenegro’s second triumph in three games in Group B, showcasing their competitive spirit against a formidable opponent.
Andrej Žakelj, the head coach of Montenegro, praised his players for their exceptional performance. He emphasized the importance of belief and preparation, stating, “They had a top-notch approach all these days, not just today. From the first day, I tried to convince them that they could compete against one of the best teams in Europe.” Žakelj acknowledged Greece’s strength, noting that they fielded players from the EuroLeague, yet he was proud of his team’s resilience.
The Slovenian coach highlighted key aspects of the game, particularly the rebounding. “We won the rebound battle, which I believe was crucial. Although we had many turnovers, we adapted and played solid defense, earning this victory on a challenging court against one of Europe’s stronger teams,” Žakelj added.
Zoran Nikolić delivered a standout performance, scoring 19 points and grabbing six rebounds. He expressed gratitude towards his teammates and coaching staff, stating, “Congratulations to the players, coaches, and everyone involved in this great victory for us. From the first moment, we fought without giving up.” Nikolić reiterated the team’s goal to demonstrate their character and determination throughout the match.
Nikolić also noted the challenge posed by the Greek team, recognizing their strong lineup. “Greece came out with perhaps their best roster given the circumstances of these qualifiers. This motivated us further, showing that they respect us and did not take this match lightly. I believe our fight and commitment to each other are goals we should strive for in all upcoming matches,” he said.
Montenegro’s next matches will further test their resolve as they aim to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup. With their recent success, the team is poised to build on this momentum in the following games, driven by their newfound confidence and teamwork.
