Finland suffered a narrow 78-81 defeat to Lithuania in a thrilling FIBA EuroBasket 2025 group stage match on September 2nd. In a classic Baltic derby, Lithuania edged their neighbors by three points in a contest that went down to the final possession. Finland showcased their trademark grit and three-point shooting, rallying from a halftime deficit to take a brief lead in the fourth quarter. The game became a tense back-and-forth affair in the final minutes, with both teams exchanging clutch baskets. Lithuania's experience proved decisive in the closing moments, as they executed a critical offensive set to take the lead before getting a vital defensive stop on Finland's last attempt to tie the game. The result was a significant early victory for Lithuania in a tough group, while Finland was left to ponder a heartbreaking loss after a valiant effort.