World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers: Finland shock France in Espoo

Finland - France 83-76

Finland claimed an impressive 83–76 victory over France in their World Cup 2027 European Qualifier, closing the game with a dominant fourth quarter. After a tight opening period, France gained momentum in the second quarter to take a halftime lead. Finland responded with steady play in the third and then erupted for 27 points in the final frame while holding France to just 15, flipping the game in their favor. Their strong late surge, combined with resilient defense down the stretch, secured a hard-earned win over a traditionally strong French side.
Edon Maxhuni (188-PG-1998, college: LBSU) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Alexander Madsen (208-C-1995) had 14. Matthew Strazel (184-PG-2002) answered with 11 points in a loss, whilst Axel Bouteille (201-SF-1995) and Lionel Gaudoux (198-PF-1995) notched 10 apiece.