Al Arabi Defeats Al Sadd to Reach Qatar Cup Semi-Finals

Al Arabi Club booked its ticket to the semi-finals of the Qatar Basketball Cup for the 2025–2026 season after defeating Al Sadd 81–65 in their quarter-final clash held on Saturday evening, April 11, 2026, at Al Gharafa Hall. With this result, the final four of the 13th edition of the tournament is now complete, in a competition marked by intensity and close technical levels among the participating teams.

The game was thrilling from the start, with Al Arabi imposing its dominance in the first quarter thanks to disciplined defense and quick offensive transitions, ending it 25–19. Al Sadd responded in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with an 18–13 advantage, capitalizing on improved shooting accuracy and fewer unforced errors.

In the third quarter, Al Arabi delivered its strongest performance of the match, seizing near-total control of the game. With dominance under the basket and relentless defensive pressure, they secured a decisive 30–11 quarter, effectively limiting Al Sadd’s offensive threat.

Although Al Sadd fought back in the fourth quarter with a 17–13 edge, the large margin created by Al Arabi in the third period proved decisive, sealing the overall victory at 81–65 and ensuring their place in the semi-finals.

On the individual level, Al Sadd’s Dejan Janic stole the spotlight as the game’s top scorer with 26 points, showcasing impressive offensive play despite his team’s loss. For Al Arabi, Bahraini star Mustafa Hussain “Mosti” was the key offensive weapon, finishing with 20 points and crucial contributions in decisive moments.

Al Arabi’s Abdulrahman Abdelhalim was named Best Qatari Player of the Match, an award presented by Musafir Trading & Transport worth $100, in recognition of his defensive impact and ability to set the rhythm on the court, tipping the balance in his team’s favor.

Quarter-final results set the stage for an exciting semi-final lineup: Al Rayyan was the first to qualify after defeating Al Khor 70–47, while Al Wakrah overcame Qatar Club 86–73. Al Shamal secured a big win over Al Gharafa 99–78, and Al Sadd earned its quarter-final spot by beating Al Ahli 78–67 before falling to Al Arabi.

Thus, the semi-final matchups are confirmed: Al Wakrah will face Al Shamal in the first clash, while Al Arabi meets Al Rayyan in a highly anticipated showdown between two teams with rich basketball history.

Historically, Al Arabi and Al Gharafa share the record for most Qatar Cup titles, with four each. Al Rayyan, Al Wakrah, and Al Sadd each hold one title, adding a special competitive edge to this edition as all teams aim to strengthen their legacy and add new achievements to their trophy cabinets.