DOHA: Qatar suffered an 86-80 defeat to Saudi Arabia in the rescheduled second-window qualifier yesterday at Al Gharafa Sports Hall despite producing a spirited display in the Asian qualifiers for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027.
The game was marked by intensity and momentum shifts across all four quarters. Saudi Arabia started strongly, taking control of the first quarter 29–20, capitalising on offensive efficiency, quick transitions, and defensive lapses from Qatar. In the second quarter, Saudi Arabia maintained its edge, edging Qatar 17–15 to enter halftime with an overall lead.
Qatar responded in the third quarter with renewed energy, improving both offensively and defensively to claim the period 24–22, narrowing the gap and regaining rhythm. The fourth quarter saw Qatar continue its resurgence, winning 21–18 with a strong finish, but the early deficit from the first half ultimately secured Saudi Arabia’s six‑point victory.
With this result, Saudi Arabia raised its tally to 7 points, while Qatar reached 6 points in Group D, which also includes Lebanon and India, leaving qualification scenarios wide open. Qatar had previously opened its campaign with a narrow 75–74 loss to Lebanon in Doha, followed by a crucial 86–83 away win over Lebanon, and a commanding 99–73 victory over India, reflecting steady progress despite mixed outcomes.
The Qatari squad now prepares to continue its qualifying journey, traveling to Ahmedabad to face India on July 2, 2026, before meeting Saudi Arabia again in Jeddah on July 5, 2026, in two decisive third‑window fixtures.
