Italy Falls to Slovenia in Heartbreaker: Pozzecco Backs His Squad After Valiant Effort
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In a gripping clash that showcased the intensity of international basketball, the Italian national team suffered a narrow defeat to Slovenia at the FIBA EuroBasket qualifiers on September 6, 2025, in Ljubljana. Despite the 82-78 loss, head coach Gianmarco Pozzecco remained steadfast in his support for his players, declaring post-game, “I trust in my boys but nobody can ask us something more.” The match, which drew over 10,000 fans to the Stožice Arena, highlighted Italy’s resilience amid a grueling schedule, fueling discussions on team morale and the challenges of competing against Luka Dončić’s powerhouse squad.
A Tough Battle on Slovenian Soil
The game was a defensive slugfest from the tip-off, with Slovenia’s NBA superstar Luka Dončić leading the charge with 28 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds, including a game-sealing three-pointer in the final minute. Italy, trailing by as many as 12 in the third quarter, mounted a furious comeback behind Achille Polonara’s 18 points and Nico Mannion’s clutch shooting, narrowing the gap to just two points with 30 seconds left. However, turnovers in the closing seconds proved costly, allowing Dončić to orchestrate the dagger.
Pozzecco, in his emotional press conference, praised his team’s heart. “I trust in my boys but nobody can ask us something more,” he said, his voice tinged with pride and frustration. “They gave everything on the court tonight—heart, hustle, everything. Against a team like this, with Luka playing at that level, it’s tough.” The coach, known for his passionate sideline presence, added that the loss was a learning opportunity as Italy eyes qualification for the 2026 FIBA World Cup.
Italy’s performance was commendable given their injury woes: key forward Simone Fontecchio sat out with a hamstring strain, forcing adjustments in the lineup. The Azzurri shot 47% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc (32%), while Slovenia’s 55% efficiency, driven by Dončić and Klemen Prepelič’s 15 points, proved decisive. Final stats: Italy 78 (Polonara 18, Mannion 14, Flaccadori 12); Slovenia 82 (Dončić 28, Prepelič 15, Tobey 10).
The Bigger Picture: Italy’s Qualification Push
This qualifier was part of Group G, where Italy (2-1) remains in contention for EuroBasket 2025 advancement, needing just one more win from their remaining games against Cyprus and potentially a playoff spot. Slovenia (3-0), already cruising toward qualification, used the win to solidify their status as European contenders. Dončić, fresh off a Dallas Mavericks playoff run, called the game “intense but special,” noting Italy’s fightback: “They never quit; that’s what makes basketball great.”
Pozzecco’s tenure since 2021 has been a rollercoaster, marked by a silver medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup but recent inconsistencies due to NBA departures and injuries. “We’ve built something special here,” he told reporters. “The boys believe, and so do I. This loss hurts, but it fuels us.” Experts like Eurohoops analyst Luigi Zarantonello echoed the sentiment, saying, “Pozzecco’s leadership shines in adversity—Italy’s not out of it yet.”
The match also spotlighted emerging talents: Italy’s 22-year-old guard Luca Severi contributed 8 points off the bench, hinting at a bright future for the Azzurri.
Background: Rivalry and Stakes in European Hoops
The Italy-Slovenia matchup has history, with Slovenia edging Italy in the 2017 EuroBasket semifinals en route to their title. In 2025, amid FIBA’s push for more competitive qualifiers, these games carry high stakes—qualification secures not just tournament spots but funding and prestige for national programs. Italy, a basketball powerhouse with 28 EuroBasket medals, faces pressure to rebound from a disappointing Olympics showing, while Slovenia leverages Dončić’s global draw to elevate the sport domestically.
Broader context includes the NBA’s influence: With stars like Dončić and Italy’s Mannion (formerly with Golden State), international games blend club and country loyalties, often leading to high-drama narratives.
Next Steps: Eyes on Qualification
Italy’s immediate focus shifts to their September 10 home game against Cyprus in Bologna, where a win could lock in their spot. Pozzecco plans lineup tweaks, potentially integrating more youth, and emphasized recovery: “Rest, reflect, and come back stronger.” FIBA officials, monitoring the tight group standings, may adjust formats if needed, but for now, the Azzurri control their destiny.
Fans can follow updates via FIBA’s app or Italian outlets like Gazzetta dello Sport. For aspiring players, Pozzecco’s message resonates: give your all, and trust the process.
Conclusion: Pride in the Fight
Though the scoreboard favored Slovenia, Italy’s valiant effort and Pozzecco’s unwavering trust in his “boys” embody the spirit of the game. In a loss that stings but inspires, the coach’s words—”nobody can ask us something more”—capture a team’s unbreakable bond. For basketball enthusiasts, the takeaway is clear: heart trumps headlines, and with battles like this, Italy’s story is far from over.