Qatar in must-win situation vs Australia at FIBA Asia Cup

alt
August 9, 2025
basketball
feed type icon
9-August-2025

Qatar in must-win situation vs Australia at FIBA Asia Cup

Jeddah: Qatar face a formidable challenge against Australia in the third round of Group A at the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah on Sunday (11am).

Following consecutive losses to Lebanon (84-80) and South Korea (97-83), Qatar need to secure a victory to keep their hopes alive for advancing into the knockouts.

Meanwhile, defending champions Australia have dominated Group A, starting with a commanding 97-61 win over South Korea and a 93-80 victory against Lebanon, earning them the top spot with 4 points. Lebanon and South Korea follow with 3 points each, while Qatar have 2 points.

Led by Turkish head coach Hakan Demir, Qatar are focusing on addressing defensive lapses and reducing turnovers while boosting offensive efficiency. The team will rely on the talents of American professional Brandon Goodwin, alongside key players Abdulrahman Saad, Zain Eldin Badri, and the dominant presence of Alen Hadzibegovic.

The match against Australia, known for their physicality and rapid offensive transitions, represents one of Qatar’s toughest challenges in the group stage. A positive result could significantly boost the team’s campaign.

The Qatar delegation in Jeddah is led by Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari, General Secretary of the Qatar Basketball Federation and Director of National Teams. Administrative support is provided by Jassim Ibrahim Ashkanani (Team Manager) and Nabil Juma (Assistant Manager). The medical team includes Dr. Adel Saleem, Dr. Adel Hormia, and physiotherapist Nikasio Sagayno.

Coach Hakan Demir, supported by assistants Cengiz Karadag, Abdu Su, Attila Yapcilar, and Mohammed Fural, continues to refine the team’s defensive and offensive strategies. Qatar’s 12-player roster includes Brandon Goodwin, Alen Hadzibegovic, Seydou Ndiaye, Zain Eldin Badri, Tyler Harris, Aladji Magassa, Omar Saad, Mustafa Ndao, Mohammed Basheer, Babacar Dieng, Abdulrahman Saad, and Mahmoud Darwish.