Lithuania edged out neighboring rival Latvia 88-79 in a high-stakes FIBA EuroBasket 2025 clash on September 6. The Baltic derby, which started at 23:30, lived up to its billing as a physical and intense contest, with Lithuania ultimately prevailing behind a balanced scoring attack. Latvia kept pace for much of the game, trailing by only four points entering the fourth quarter. However, Lithuania's experience and execution in the half-court offense proved decisive in the final minutes, as they consistently found answers for every Latvian run. A key three-pointer with under two minutes to go extended the lead to nine and effectively sealed the victory. The win is a crucial first step for Lithuania in a tough group, while Latvia will rue missed opportunities in a tight finish.