Belgium vs Portugal FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 Game Preview & How to Watch
- → Game to take place at the Hala Vodova, Brno on Thursday, June 19 at 11:15 Local Time (CEST)
- → Belgium are aiming to begin their title defense with a commanding performance
- → Portugal make their EuroBasket debut, seeking to upset the reigning champions
Belgium vs Portugal: Champions Begin Their Defense Against Debutants
The FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 tips off in Group C with a compelling matchup between the reigning champions, Belgium's Belgian Cats, and tournament newcomers, Portugal. Held at Brno's Hala Vodova, this game marks the beginning of Belgium's title defense and Portugal's historic first appearance in the competition.
Belgian Cats Aiming for a Strong Start
Under the guidance of seasoned coach Mike Thibault, the Belgian Cats enter the tournament with high expectations. Key players like Emma Meesseman and Julie Vanloo bring experience and leadership to the squad. Belgium's recent performances, including a fourth-place finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics, showcase their consistent presence at the top of European women's basketball.
Embracing the Underdog Role
Portugal's qualification for EuroBasket 2025 marks a significant milestone for the nation's women's basketball program. Led by coach Ricardo Vasconcelos, the team has shown resilience and determination in the qualifiers. While they may lack the experience of their opponents, Portugal's players are eager to make their mark on the European stage.
This eagerness has been clear since the preparation games, where Portugal only lost to Spain and Slovenia, whilst beating Serbia and Switzerland.
Marcia Da Costa and Sofia Silva are itching to introduce the Lusitans to the European basketball stage.
Key Matchups and Strategic Considerations
Emma Meesseman will be the focal point for Belgium, and how Portugal handles her will define the game. The veteran’s high-post creativity and scoring touch will test Carolina Cruz, Portugal’s young interior anchor, who must avoid early foul trouble to keep her side competitive.
In the backcourt, Julie Vanloo’s tempo control and Maxuella Lisowa-Mbaka’s attacking instincts give the Cats multiple ways to break down Portugal’s perimeter defense. Maria Bettencourt and Inês Viana will need to play mistake-free basketball and hit outside shots to keep pace.
If Portugal can slow the game, crash the boards, and find rhythm from three, they can stay within range. But if Belgium dictate tempo and get easy transition looks, it could be a steep climb for the newcomers.
How to watch Belgium vs Portugal at the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025
Watch Belgium vs Portugal and all games from the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 live and on-demand from the Hala Vodova via Courtside 1891 by purchasing a Max Women's EuroBasket Pass, a Women's Continental Cups bundle for just £6.99, or a Max Annual pass, to get access to all FIBA events and year-round basketball content. Broadcast availability may vary by region, so check local listings for coverage in your area.
