(Reuters)
Updated: 2007-09-08 05:42

MADRID, Sept 7 - Russia booked their place in the quarter-finals after beating underdogs Portugal 78-65 in qualifying round Group E at the European Championship on Friday.

Russia's Andrei Kirilenko (C) goes up for a basket between Portugal's Francisco Jordao (L) and Elvis Evora during their second round game at the European Basketball Championships in Madrid September 7, 2007. [Reuters]

David Blatt's side made it four wins from four in the tournament with Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko putting in another influential display, top scoring with 16 points.

He was supported by Chicago Bulls forward Victor Khryapa with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Although they still have two games left to play they are assured of a top four finish in the group.

But Blatt sought to play down their achievement.

"We are nowhere near the medal positions yet. You can win four or five games here then lose one and you are out. It's a very tough tournament," he told reporters.

Portugal, who have already exceeded their best showing in the Euros by making it to the second stage, made life difficult for the Russians until dropping off the pace in the third quarter.

Croatia surprised world champions Spain in their last game but were second best against Israel as they fell 80-75.

CSKA Samara forward Yaniv Green steered Israel to victory with 17 points and a game-high 16 rebounds.