Saudi Arabia stun Qatar in overtime thriller

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: editor@newsofbahrain.com

Saudi Arabia pulled off a stunning 81-79 overtime win against Qatar in the Gulf Men’s Basketball Championship.

The game, held yesterday at Bahrain’s Khalifa Sports City Arena, saw Saudi Arabia overturn a significant deficit to secure their second win in the tournament.

The Gulf Basketball Championship has long been a battleground for these two basketball powerhouses ever since its inception in 1981.

With Qatar holding the record for the most titles and Saudi Arabia eager to add to their tally, the rivalry continues to heat up, promising more exciting encounters as the tournament progresses.

Qatar’s Early Dominance Qatar started strong, leading Saudi Arabia 18-15 in the first quarter.

They extended their lead to 38-30 by halftime, showing their intent to bounce back after their previous loss to Bahrain.

By the end of the third quarter, Qatar seemed firmly in control, stretching their lead to 61-47.

However, Saudi Arabia was far from done.

They fought back in the final quarter, tying the game at 70-70 and forcing it into overtime.

The extra period was nothing short of a nail-biter, with Saudi Arabia managing to edge out Qatar by just two points, ending the game 81-79.

Player of the Match Marzouq Al-Muwallah was instrumental in Saudi Arabia’s yesterday’s win.

Al-Muwallah scored 19 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists. He also contributed defensively with 2 steals and shot an impressive 53% from the field.

His all-around play was crucial in turning the game around and securing Saudi Arabia’s second win in the championship.

This win is crucial for Saudi Arabia as they prepare to face Bahrain today at 7:30 PM.

Meanwhile, Qatar, who will face Kuwait at 5 PM, will be looking to recover from another heartbreaking loss.