Doha: Al-Ahli Club maintained their remarkable performance in the 2024-2025 Amir Cup Basketball Championship, securing a commendable 96-71 victory against Qatar SC during the game held on Monday evening at Indoor Hall of Al-Gharafa Sports Club, as part of the third round of Group A.
Al-Ahli approached the game with heightened focus and a rapid pace, dominating the first period with a significant lead of 35-11.
This advantage stemmed from their evident defensive strength and swift offensive maneuvers, allowing them to control the game from the outset. In the second period, Qatar SC displayed a different approach, enhancing their defensive and offensive strategies to win 25-23.
However, the substantial lead established by Al-Ahli in the first period was sufficient to maintain their dominance throughout the game. In the third period, Al-Ahli regained their grip on the game, winning 16-10, showcasing their resolve to conclude the game decisively and secure the victory.
Although Qatar SC triumphed in the fourth period (25-22), the considerable lead that Al-Ahli had built early on and in the subsequent periods hindered Qatar SC’s ability to significantly narrow the gap. Al-Ahli confirmed their superiority, ultimately winning by a margin of 25 points.
Individually, Qatar SC’s Dejan Janic excelled, scoring 37 points to become the match’s leading scorer. Despite his team’s defeat, his exceptional performance warranted recognition. Conversely, Omar Rushdi Abdel Basset led Al-Ahli with a well-rounded performance, contributing 20 points and emerging as a pivotal player in helping the team sustain its lead.
Following this victory, Al-Ahli has increased its points total to 6, securing the top position in Group A with an unblemished record of three wins from three gamees.
Qatar SC remain in fourth place with three points, still seeking their first victory. In another game within the same group, Al Arabi demonstrated their resolve to defend their title by achieving a decisive win over Al Gharafa, with a score of 79-67 in a game marked by excitement and competitiveness during its initial periods.
The first period showcased a notable balance between the two teams, concluding in a 21-21 tie. However, Al Arabi’s players surged ahead in the second period, dominating the game and winning that segment by a significant margin of 27-11.
In the third period, Al Gharafa managed to mount a comeback, winning 19-15, but Al Arabi regained their composure in the fourth period, which ended in a 16-16 stalemate. Elmedin Kikanović of Al Arabi emerged as the match’s leading scorer with 24 points, while Maki Zion Juan Richard led Al Gharafa with 21 points. With this victory, Al Arabi has accumulated four points from just two matches, placing them second in the group behind Al Ahli.
Al Gharafa remains in fifth and last place with two points after enduring their second consecutive defeat. All attention now shifts to the upcoming round of the group stage, where fans of the Group A teams eagerly anticipate a highly awaited clash between Al Ahli and Al Arabi on Monday evening, May 5, 2025.
This game is expected to be a thrilling contest to determine the top position in Group A. On the same day, Al Sadd will face Al Gharafa in a crucial match for both teams, which will enhance their chances of vying for one of the qualifying spots.
