Slovakia and Ukraine both played in the 2003 Eurobasket for women in Greece but just one looks to be on their way to next year's tournament.

Ukraine twice led by as many as 10 points but suffered a fourth-quarter collapse and crashed to a 73-64 defeat - their fourth straight setback in Group B.

Leading 56-51 after three quarters, they were outscored 20-8 over the final 10 minutes.

Ukraine must be wondering what has happened to the side that was good enough to compete in Greece.

		Slovakia's Zuzana Zirkova

Guard Olga Lyashkova and centre Nelli Nevzorova each had 14 points but it wasn't enough for Evgen Borzilov's team.

"I am not sure who was better today," he said.

"We wanted to win a lot but our chances for the Championships are probably over. Slovakia won, and I have to say  deservedly."

Borzilov says Ukraine simply didn't execute for the entire game.

"We stopped our good movement when we were leading by 10 points and the home team took advantage," he said. "I wish Slovakia good luck in the forthcoming games."

Ukraine were steamrolled by Slavka Frniakova, who had a game-high 27 points. The 1.66m guard took the spotlight away from star Zuzana Zirkova, making five of 13 three-pointers.

Jozef Resetar, the coach of Slovakia, said: "It was a hard fight and this was not an easy win for sure.

"I am happy that my players showed a big heart when Ukraine led by 10 points a couple of times.

"We made sure of our win in the last quarter when we played good in the defence and scored important points. Slavka Frniakova played a good game.

"Ukraine utilised their tall players and we had a lot of problems under the basket. We now must make one more step to qualify to European Championships."