World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers: Netherlands upset Latvia in Riga

Latvia - Netherlands 78-86

Netherlands came up with a big surprise at the start of their 2027 World Cup Qualifiers campaign. The Dutch side shocked Latvia in Riga to open win count in Group F. Nathan Kuta (203-C-2000) led well-balanced effort with 17 points, while Keye Van Der Vuurst (191-PG-2001) produced 16 points and 8 assists in the victory.
Netherlands dominated right from the tip off. They unloaded 26 points in the first period to take a 14-point lead. The Dutch side extended the gap at 19-point margin at halftime. Latvia stopped the rot in the third term. The hosts pulled within 15 points at the final break. Latvia unleashed 28 points in the fourth frame but could not avoid the loss.
Rihards Lomazs (189-G-1996) chipped in 17 points, while Kristaps Kilps (195-SF-2001) banked in 15 points for Latvia.