Doha: In a thrilling and competitive evening, Al-Ahli and Al-Wakrah advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024-2025 Amir Cup Basketball Championship by defeating Al-Shamal and Al-Gharafa on Monday evening, May 12, 2025, during the knockout stage.
In the first game at Al-Gharafa Sports Hall, Al-Ahli triumphed over Al-Shamal with a score of 79-74 in a game characterized by fluctuating performances, where both teams exchanged dominance throughout the four quarters. Al-Ahli commenced the match with vigor, leading the first quarter 19-11. However, Al-Shamal made a strong comeback in the second quarter, winning 25-16 and finishing the first half with a narrow one-point advantage.
In the third quarter, Al-Ahli regained control, showcasing a robust defensive and well-organized offensive strategy, concluding with a notable lead of 23-12. Although Al-Shamal excelled in the fourth quarter with a score of 26-21, it was insufficient to overturn the overall score, resulting in their elimination from the tournament.
Emmanuel Ezenwa Egbota was the standout player for Al-Shamal, scoring 21 points, while Danny Akintunde Agbelize led Al-Ahli with 15 points.
In the second game, Al-Wakrah exhibited dominance against Al-Gharafa, achieving an 85-75 victory that secured their place in the semifinals, finalizing the lineup of four teams advancing in the most prestigious tournament in Qatari basketball.
The game showcased an impressive team effort from Al Wakrah, who took advantage of Al Gharafa’s defensive mistakes and successfully secured the victory, despite Al Gharafa’s efforts to recover at various stages.
Al Wakrah established an early lead in the first period (29-20), and the two teams were evenly matched in a thrilling second period (17-17).
In the third period, Al Gharafa emerged victorious (22-16), but Al Wakrah clinched the win in the fourth period (23-16). Maki Zion Juan Richard from Al Shamal was the highest scorer of the match with 26 points, while Sindou Ismail Diallo led Al Wakrah with 22 points.
Following the conclusion of the group stage, the semi-final matchups have been determined. They will be contested in a ‘best of three’ format, with Al Arabi, the reigning champion and Group A leader, set to face Al Wakrah, while Group B leader Al Rayyan will compete against Al Ahli.
The first semi-final will take place on May 15, 2025, at Al Gharafa Arena, followed by the second round on May 17, 2025. Should a tie occur, a decisive third round will be held on May 19, 2025. The two victorious teams will progress to the final on May 22, 2025, which will be a single-match event. Al Arabi, the defending champions, achieved direct entry into the semi-finals after finishing first in Group A with 7 points, tied with Al Ahli, who placed second based on head-to-head results.
Al Gharafa secured third place with 6 points, earning a spot in the ’round of 16.’ Al Sadd (fourth with 6 points) and Qatar SC (fifth with 4 points) were eliminated from the tournament. In Group B, Al Rayyan demonstrated dominance, leading the standings with 6 points to secure a top-four position, while Al Wakrah followed in second with 5 points, Al Shamal in third with 4 points, and Al Khor was eliminated after finishing fourth with 3 points.
