Belgium U20 Women vs. Turkey U20 Women – FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship Division A

In a gripping contest at the FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship Division A on July 5, 2026, Belgium’s Under‑20 women’s team narrowly defeated Turkey 70–68. The match, played in a neutral venue, featured outstanding individual performances and dramatic late‑game sequences that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the game with hopes of building momentum in the group stage. Turkey, boasting a physically strong frontcourt, controlled the boards early, while Belgium relied on perimeter shooting and transition offense. The game see‑sawed throughout, with neither side holding more than an eight‑point lead. Belgium’s composure in the closing minutes proved to be the difference.

Key Moments

• First Half: Turkey’s center Ayşe Yıldız dominated inside, scoring 14 points in the first 20 minutes. Yet Belgium’s guard Lise Van Damme kept her team close with 12 points, including three three‑pointers. Turkey led 37–35 at halftime.
• Third Quarter: Belgium opened with a 10‑2 run, taking a 45–39 lead. Turkey responded with a 12‑4 spurt of their own, reclaiming a 51–49 edge heading into the fourth.
• Final Seconds: With the score tied at 68‑68 and 12 seconds left, Belgium’s point guard Anke Vermeulen drove into the lane and drew a foul. She calmly made both free throws, giving Belgium a 70–68 lead. Turkey’s final three‑point attempt missed as time expired.

Standout Performers

Belgium’s Lise Van Damme was named player of the game, posting 24 points (including 5 three‑pointers), 4 assists, and 3 steals. Her shooting kept Belgium’s offense flowing. For Turkey, Ayşe Yıldız recorded a dominant double‑double of 22 points and 15 rebounds, but her team struggled with foul trouble (23 personal fouls) and shot just 5/15 from the free‑throw line in the final period.

Tournament Impact

The win moves Belgium to 2‑1 in the group stage of the U20 Women’s European Championship, boosting their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals. Turkey falls to 1‑2 and will need to win their remaining group games to avoid an early exit. The result highlights the depth of young talent in European women’s basketball, with Belgium proving they can grind out wins in high‑pressure situations.