Croatia overturned a game Netherlands had controlled to win 101-99 in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 European second round. The home side led by as many as 14 after the second quarter (58-44 at halftime), but a 32-19 third period completely reshaped the contest in Group K.
Netherlands were still ahead entering the decisive stretch before Croatia found its best interior game. Ivica Zubac finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds on 8-for-10 shooting, while Dario Saric matched the 24 points and added 6 assists. That tandem powered a 32-point third quarter that held Netherlands to 19.
Der Vuurst Keye Van (23 points) and Yannick Franke (21) kept the Dutch competitive, but 12-for-32 three-point shooting and weaker interior production prevented them from closing a game that had looked within reach. Croatia's free-throw edge (27-for-32 to 17-for-24) proved costly.
[[player:596|game:3347]]The win strengthens Croatia's position in Group K, while Netherlands must recover from a defeat that stings for both its timing and the lead they could not protect.
