EUROBASKET 2011

Zaza Pachulia and Georgia will prove a real test for a Slovenia team that has so far failed to impress

Ukraine v Bulgaria - Saturday at 15:30 (14:30 CET)

The best part of the first game of the day is that it will either separate these two sides or glue them together.

Bulgaria hold a 1-1 record and, a win on Saturday will give them a two victories advantage over Ukraine with only two games to go.

That will put Bulgaria in a great position to fight for the trip to Vilnius.

Another good day by EJ Rowland will be a must but the Ivanov twins will need to figure out how to handle the massive frontline of Ukraine.

Coach Mike Fratello's team is actually not in such a bad place. The draw set them with the two giants of the group in the first two games, and they put up a fight in both.

If Ukraine find the momentum they had in the last quarter against Slovenia, and use it to beat Bulgaria, they could surf from here for the two last games with a big wave and might turn the face of their performance here to a spot in the next round.

Slovenia v Georgia - Saturday at 18:00 (17:00 CET)

The main event of the day is the biggest test for Georgia.

In their debut performance they surely gave the impression of a team that belongs in the next round, but they still need to show it when it's business time.

They came close against Russia, and now Slovenia is the next big step.

With a win, Georgia will move very close to the next round and will also send out a clear message they can complete with any team here.

Slovenia have not impressed so far, but still have two wins.

A loss against Georgia could complicate their plans considering they still need to face Russia on the last day.

Yet a win will push them to a 3-0 record and secure their spot in the next round.

Russia v Belgium - Saturday at 21:00 (20:00 CET)

The two ends of the group meet in the last game of the day.

Russia survived tough games against Ukraine and Georgia to stand with a 2-0 mark, but yet something is missing.

Just like Slovenia, David Blatt's team still haven't sent out a statement, and a big win over Belgium would boost their confidence going into the last stretch of the Preliminary Round.

Belgium probably didn't count this game as the one to get a win, but they are an injured animal, especially after missing their opportunity against Bulgaria.

With nothing to lose Belgium will try to catch Russia off guard and despite the physical, depth and skill disadvantage pull out a shocking upset.