Tue Jul 01 01:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Belgium’s “Cats” Claw Back From the Brink to Secure FIBA Women’s EuroBasket Title in Thrilling Final**

PIRAEUS, GREECE – In a stunning display of resilience and determination, Belgium’s women’s basketball team, nicknamed the “Cats,” snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against Spain in the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket Final at the Peace and Friendship Stadium. A crowd of nearly 8,000 spectators witnessed a roller-coaster match that saw Belgium overcome a 12-point deficit in the final three minutes to win 67-65, securing their second consecutive EuroBasket title.

Trailing 65-53 with time running out, the Cats mounted an improbable 14-0 run, fueled by stifling defense and clutch shooting. Julie Allemand’s step-back three-pointer narrowed the gap to one point with 90 seconds left, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish. Antonia Delaere then delivered the decisive blow, stealing a pass with just five seconds remaining and converting a layup to give Belgium a lead they would not relinquish.

Emma Meesseman delivered a dominant performance for Belgium with 16 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 steals, and 2 blocks.

“I still don’t even realise how we won it,” admitted Meesseman, who was named MVP. “Mentally, in the last few minutes, I was not sure how we were going to fix it…I have had a lot of games in my career but nothing like that before – especially not in a Final.”

The victory cements Belgium’s status as a powerhouse in European women’s basketball and earns them an automatic berth in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Belgium becomes only the third nation in the tournament’s history to defend its crown.

Spain, led by coach Miguel Mendez, struggled to find the right rhythm in the final minutes of the game. Spain winger Alba Torrens said: “Today I think we played a great game against them. It wasn’t easy and I think we did a great job as we did for the whole tournament. I am proud for my whole team – for all us. We showed so many good things. I value all of the work this team has done and the medal that we got.”

“Wow. That was a game. Quite honestly, it didn’t look good with four minutes to go. We just tried to make something happen. We made some big plays – credit to Spain as they played an unbelievable game. But we will take it whatever way it comes. We figured out a way to win – somehow.” Belgium coach, Mike Thibault.

While a silver medal represents a successful tournament for Spain, the manner of their defeat will undoubtedly sting for some time to come.

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