SVT Sport broadcasts both matches when Sweden's basketball masters qualify for the World Cup twice against Croatia within the course of four days, 25th and 28th of February.
Croatia is ranked 21st in the international federation Fiba's world ranking, comparatively Sweden is in 51st place.
But the Croatians have started the qualifying game with two straight losses (74-76 against Slovenia and 71-77 against Finland) and are last in the group.
"A great power in crisis"
Sweden, on the other hand, is second in the group after a victory against Finland (72-62) and a narrow loss against world number four Slovenia (89-94).
- The new national team captains have had an outstanding start and the last two qualifying matches are the best Sweden has achieved in a long time.
There are very positive winds blowing right now, says SVT's expert Nick Rajacic.
- Croatia is traditionally a great power in Europe, but is in crisis right now.
They have just changed the league captain and will not line up with the best possible team.
Far from it.
This is a fantastic opportunity for Sweden to strike with at least one victory and maybe two.
"Something of a B national team"
The biggest Croatian stars play in the NBA or clubs that compete in the Euroleague and are therefore not available.
For example, names like Bojan Bogdanovic (Utah Jazz) and Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers).
- Their best team had run over Sweden, you have to be honest and say that.
But I have watched their 24-man squad and there are a lot of young players.
Something of a B national team.
"Jerebko is invaluable"
For the Swedish part, the poster name Jonas Jerebko is back in the national team uniform.
- To have him in the squad is invaluable.
He contributes with routine, smartness and spreads a self-confidence to the team.
Croatia knows who Jonas is after ten years in the NBA, but it will be difficult for them to scout Sweden because Jonas has only made two international appearances in the last eight years.
That is an advantage, says Rajacic.
At the same time, he points out that the star has gone clubless and is unlikely to go in and dominate.
- On the other hand, he can be the difference between Sweden winning or losing.
The best thing about Jerebko is that wherever he has played, he has adapted to that team.
He will not come in here and be a top scorer who requires 20 shots, but he knows how to play to help the team.
Footnote:
SVT broadcasts the double meeting.
First out Croatia-Sweden on 25/2 starting 18.20 in SVT2 / Play.
On 28/2, Sweden plays at home and that match starts at 18.50 on SVT2.
SEE ALSO: SVT Sport has met basketball star Jonas Jerebko
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Jonas Jerebko, here in the national team jersey, dreams of winning a championship ring in the NBA.
Photo: TT