Greece’s Olympic hopes took a hit as they lost to Spain 84-77 in a critical group-stage game on Tuesday in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France. Santi Aldama led Spain with 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Sergio Llull added 13 points. Spain, now 1-1 in Group A, remains in contention to advance to the knockout round.
Giannis Antetokounmpo shone for Greece with 27 points and 11 rebounds. Despite trailing by 14 points at halftime, Greece rallied to tie the game at 71 in the fourth quarter with a powerful dunk by Antetokounmpo over Aldama. However, Spain responded with an 8-point run to regain control.
With under a minute remaining, Greece closed the gap to 80-77, but Antetokounmpo’s 3-pointer missed, sealing their defeat. Greece must now win against Australia in their final group game to have any chance of advancing.
Spain’s victory was marred by an injury to Rudy Fernandez, who left the game late in the fourth quarter after a collision under the basket. Spain will face Canada in their final group-stage game, looking to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
