Croatia finally broke through to the semifinals of FIBA Eurobasket for the first time in 18 years, leaning on a massive second-quarter attack to eliminate Ukraine, 84-72.

En route to winning their eight straight game, a 2013 tournament record, Croatia had to withstand a tough first quarter, which saw Ukraine getting an early 12-5 lead. Croatia took the advantage but Ukraine capitalised on their height, scoring 16 inside points to draw level with the Croats, 22-22, at the end of the first period.

Once the second quarter began, though, Dontaye Draper took charge of the Croatian offense, leading the way with four assists and forcing the Ukrainians to three turnovers which translated to 11 points, and Croatia took advantage of Ukraine's lack of speed on their way to a 51-35 halftime lead. Ukraine was scoreless for much of the second quarter, hitting 0-of-10 from downtown.

Krunoslav Simon started the scoring for Croatia in the second half, drilling in a trey that extended the lead to 54-35. However, Ukraine did not want to go gently into the night as Viacheslav Kavtsov broke free for a lay-up that reduced Croatia's lead to nine points, 63-54. Both teams traded baskets the rest of the quarter, with Croatia still ending up on top, 70-61.

With the outcome all but settled, Ukraine tried desperately to make one last push, but as Sergii Gladyr fouled out, they were deprived of one of their crucial offensive weapons. They would manage to score only 11 points in the last frame. Croatia's experience paid off as they forced Ukraine into foul trouble and hit the insurance free throws to maintain a double-digit lead.

Krunoslav Simon was the player of the game, hitting five of seven three-point shots and finishing with 23 points. Ukraine, which had a dreadful shooting night from the outside, only scored nine points from that area. Croatia also looked for the better shots, with 22 assists to Ukraine's 12.

Croatia will advance to the semifinals and to the 2014 FIBA World Cup, while Ukraine has to tangle with Italy to get the last remaining seat in the 2014 event.