Upsets Abound in Basketball Africa League Quarterfinals

Posted : 28 May 2024

Sunday’s Basketball Africa League matchups delivered surprising outcomes as Cape Town Tigers from South Africa stunned FUS Rabat of Morocco, while reigning champions Al Ahly of Egypt were eliminated by Libyan counterpart Al Ahly Benghazi.

These unexpected results left spectators in Kigali astounded, especially considering the Tigers' underdog status and their last-seed ranking among the eight participating teams. Their triumph, a hard-fought 91-88 overtime victory, marked a significant milestone in their tournament history.

The Tigers' performance in the first half showcased a tight contest with both teams relentlessly vying for control. Despite FUS leading 17-15 after the initial quarter, the Tigers managed to seize a narrow 44-41 advantage by halftime, propelled by pivotal plays from players like Ken Brown and Ngor Manyang.

The momentum swung back and forth in the third quarter, with the Tigers briefly trailing before reclaiming the lead with clutch shots from Dhieu Deing and Samkelo Cele.

As the game progressed into the late stages, the Tigers maintained a slim margin, only to face a resilient Rabat side determined to claw back into contention. With the score tied and the clock winding down, Cele's heroics, including a remarkable three-pointer, forced the game into overtime, much to the exhilaration of the Tigers' supporters.

In the extra period, the Tigers demonstrated composure and resilience, ultimately securing their historic victory with stellar performances from key players, notably Cele and Nathi Sibanyoni.

Meanwhile, in another quarterfinal showdown, Al Ahly Benghazi showcased dominance over the defending champions, Al Ahly of Egypt. Led by standout performances from Deng, Lual-Acuil, and Golden, Benghazi stormed to an 86-77 triumph, dashing the hopes of the favored Egyptian side. Despite a valiant effort from Al Ahly, Benghazi's relentless offensive barrage proved insurmountable, sealing their berth in the semifinals.

Looking ahead, the stage is set for captivating semifinal matchups, with Cape Town Tigers poised to face formidable opponents and Al Ahly Benghazi seeking to extend their impressive run. As the tournament unfolds, the unexpected outcomes serve as a testament to the competitiveness and unpredictability inherent in the Basketball Africa League, captivating audiences worldwide with its thrilling displays of talent and determination.

Upsets Abound in Basketball Africa League Quarterfinals

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics