The Swedish basketball team secured a crucial away win against Estonia, 79-69, in the World Cup qualifiers after three straight losses. The victory keeps the dream of the 2027 World Cup in Qatar alive. Captain Ludvig Håkanson led with 18 points.
After three straight losses in the World Cup qualifiers, the Swedish basketball team faced a must-win game against Estonia in Tallinn. The previous home match against the same opponent ended in defeat, 77-88, on Friday. To have a chance at the 2027 basketball World Cup in Qatar, Sweden needed to win.
The game started promisingly for Sweden with an early lead, but Estonia fought back, tying it at halftime, 38-38. The teams stayed close in a match that threatened to become a thriller. With eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, it was still tied at 58-58. Sweden then shifted gears, took the lead, and won the final period by 14 points.
Captain Ludvig Håkanson was the top scorer with 18 points. Sweden was without NBA star Pelle Larsson, as well as Simon Birgander and Barra Njie, due to injuries.
Sweden sits last in its qualifying group but has a chance to climb. Three of four teams advance to the next round. Upcoming matches are against Czechia and Slovenia in July. Sweden has never participated in the World Cup, which is held every four years.
