The world champions were struggling to defeat a team that were making their debut in the round of 16 of EuroBasket, needing a late surge to power into the quarter-finals.
Germany, led by Franz Wagner and Isaac Bonga, started strongly, although they could not get too far ahead on the scoreboard (17-12 by the 10th minute). In the second quarter, Portugal tightened up. Led by star player Neemias Queta, who dominated the paint with authority, they turned the game around and went 32-21 up at half time.
Germany escape with three-pointers
After the break, Portugal kept up the intensity, but Germany pushed again, this time under the leadership of Schroder. But the lead with 10 minutes to go was just one point for the Germans (52-51).
In the last quarter, Alex Mumbru's men stepped up the pace, both in defence and attack, mainly thanks to their three-point shooting.
Two by Maodo Lo and one by Andreas Obst ended up closing a game in which the Germans eventually won, sweeping their opponents by 27 points. Germany won the final quarter 33-7.
Germany will play in the quarter-finals against the winner of the tie between Italy and Slovenia on Sunday.
The most outstanding players in Germany were Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner with 16 points each, and Isaac Bonga with 15. For Portugal, Neemias Queta with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 24 assists.