RIGA (FIBA U19 World Championship) - There was more than just pride at stake in Croatia's gutsy victory over the USA on Wednesday as the result will have serious implications on the knock-out round bracket.

The 87-85 point victory, inspired by a brilliant Tony Katic, elevates Croatia to second place ahead of Lithuania, meaning that the USA and the Lithuanians would meat in the Semi Final should they both progress against Group E opponents, currently being decided during the conclusion of the group stages.

Croatia, who now find themselves on the same side of the brackets as neighbours and fellow group F qualifiers Serbia and who have now beaten both Lithuania and the USA, have elevated themselves to the ranks of serious title contenders.

FIBA