Lithuania Suffers Heartbreaking Loss to Iceland in FIBA World Cup Qualifying
Lithuania’s national basketball team suffered a stunning 86-85 defeat at the hands of Iceland on Friday, February 27, 2026, despite leading by as many as 21 points in the fourth quarter. A last-second shot by Elvaras Fridrikssonas sealed the victory for Iceland, marking a significant upset in the FIBA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Dramatic Finish in Reykjavik
The game, played in Reykjavik, saw a remarkable comeback by the Icelandic team. After trailing for much of the second half, Iceland rallied with a minor lineup, spearheaded by Fridrikssonas, who ultimately scored the winning basket with the buzzer. The final score was 86-85.
Blaževičius Shines in Defeat
Despite the loss, Lithuanian center Marekas Blaževičius delivered a career-best performance. He recorded 19 points, 11 rebounds, and a game-high 30 efficiency rating. Ąžuolas Tubelis added 16 points, although Ignas Sargiūnas and Kristupas Žemaitis contributed 13 and 10 points respectively.
Fridrikssonas Leads Iceland to Victory
Elvaras Fridrikssonas was the hero for Iceland, finishing with 34 points, including 6 of 7 three-pointers, along with 6 assists and 4 rebounds. Tryggvi Hlinasonas added 14 points for the home team.
Looking Ahead: Rematch in Klaipėda
The Lithuanian team will have a chance to avenge this defeat on March 2nd, when they host Iceland in Klaipėda. This rematch will be crucial as both teams continue their quest to qualify for the FIBA World Cup.
Team Rosters
Lithuania: Kristupas Žemaitis, Vaidas Kariniauskas, Margiris Normantas, Ignas Sargiūnas, Ignas Brazdeikis, Mantas Rubštavičius, Matas Jogėlas, Mindaugas Kačinas, Eimantas Bendžius, Ąžuolas Tubelis, Marekas Blaževičius, and Martinas Gebenas.
Iceland: Elvaras Fridrikssonas, Haukuras Palssonas, Hilmaras Henningssonas, Jon Axelis Gudmundssonas, Kari Jonssonas, Kristinnas Palssonas, Olafuras Olafssonas, Styrmiras Thrastarsonas, Tryggvi Hlinasonas, Veigaras Alexanderssonas, Thoriras Thorbjarnarsonas, and Aegiras Steinarssonas.
Did you know?
This is not the first time Lithuania has faced a tough challenge from Iceland in recent competitions. The teams previously met in a friendly match in Alytus last summer, which Lithuania won 96-83.
FAQ
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: Iceland defeated Lithuania 86-85.
Q: Who scored the winning basket for Iceland?
A: Elvaras Fridrikssonas.
Q: Where will the rematch seize place?
A: The rematch will be held in Klaipėda, Lithuania on March 2nd.
Q: Who was the top performer for Lithuania?
A: Marekas Blaževičius, with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
Q: What is at stake in these games?
A: Qualification for the FIBA World Cup.
Don’t miss the rematch! Stay tuned for updates and analysis as Lithuania battles Iceland once again. Read more about the team’s preparation, and expectations.