29-07-2025
Qatar basketball team to face UAE in Manama today
Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar's reserve basketball team is gearing up for a critical match against the United Arab Emirates in the 26th Arab Basketball Championship. The game is scheduled for 4pm on Wednesday at Khalifa Sports City Arena in Manama, Bahrain, where the tournament is being hosted from July 25 to August 2, 2025.
This fourth-round clash is a pivotal opportunity for Qatar's reserve squad to secure their first victory in the championship, boosting their points tally and strengthening their bid for a top position.
The match follows a challenging 92-66 defeat to Algeria in the third round on Tuesday. Algeria dominated early, winning the first quarter 28-14. Despite Qatar's improved performance in the second quarter, which ended in a 20-20 tie, Algeria regained control in the third and fourth quarters, securing 20-13 and 24-19 victories, respectively, to clinch the game.
Qatar's Dejan Yanik stood out, scoring 19 points, while Algeria's Sid Ali Ben Zaim led the game with 21 points.
The Qatar reserve team's participation aligns with a strategic vision set by the Qatar Basketball Federation to nurture young talent.
The initiative aims to provide emerging players with international exposure and competitive experience, preparing them for future integration into the senior national team.
The effort underscores Qatar's commitment to advancing its basketball program and elevating its standing in regional and continental competitions.
Qatar's campaign began with a 72-61 loss to host nation Bahrain, followed by an improved showing against Egypt in the second round, despite a 90-69 defeat.
The team displayed notable progress in the third and fourth quarters against Egypt, signaling their growing cohesion and potential.
Following the UAE match, Qatar will face Kuwait on August 1 and conclude their tournament schedule against Tunisia on August 2. The Arab Championship features a single-round robin format with seven participating teams: Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, the UAE, and Kuwait. The team with the highest points at the end of the competition will claim the title.
