Italy Women held off Slovenia Women 67-62 in a hard-fought Europe Women’s Basketball Championship Qualifier on November 12, 2026, sealing the win with a disciplined fourth-quarter defensive effort. The game was close throughout, but Italy’s ability to execute in the final five minutes proved decisive.

Match overview

Italy started strongly, taking the first quarter 18-14, but Slovenia responded well in the second period to trim the halftime deficit to two points at 33-31. The third quarter belonged to Italy, who outscored Slovenia 19-15 to build a six-point cushion. Slovenia fought back in the fourth, but Italy’s late stops and free-throw shooting closed the door.

• Quarter-by-quarter: Italy 18-14, 15-17, 19-15, 15-16
• Halftime score: Italy 33, Slovenia 31
• Final score: Italy Women 67, Slovenia Women 62

Key moments

The decisive sequence came with just over three minutes remaining. After Slovenia had cut the lead to two points, Italy produced an 8-0 run, capped by a contested mid-range jumper and a fast-break layup. Slovenia refused to fade, hitting a late three-pointer to make it a one-possession game, but Italy converted four straight free throws in the final minute to secure the result.

Tactical story

Italy’s half-court defense was the story of the closing period. They switched effectively on screens, contested Slovenia’s perimeter looks, and forced several late-clock attempts. Offensively, Italy relied on patient ball movement and timely cuts, avoiding the rushed shots that had allowed Slovenia to stay in the game earlier. Slovenia’s interior scoring kept them close, but their three-point shooting deserted them in the final minutes.

Standout players

Italy’s Cecilia Zandalasini led the way with composed scoring and smart decision-making in the fourth quarter, while the Italian frontcourt protected the rim and secured crucial defensive rebounds. Slovenia’s Teja Oblak was outstanding in defeat, controlling the tempo and keeping her team within striking distance with timely baskets. Ultimately, Italy’s depth and late-game execution made the difference in a game that could have gone either way.

What it means

The win keeps Italy in a strong position in the Europe Women’s Basketball Championship Qualifier and highlights their ability to win tight, defensive games. Slovenia leave with a narrow loss but can take confidence from pushing a strong opponent to the wire. Italy will look to build on their fourth-quarter execution, while Slovenia must improve their late-game shot selection in the next qualifying window.