Al Ahly Triumphs in Dramatic Overtime Showdown
In a gripping encounter that showcased the intensity and skill of African basketball, Al Ahly triumphed over FUS Rabat with a score of 76-71 in a double overtime thriller, solidifying their position at the top of the 2026 Sahara Conference. The match, which took place in Rabat, Morocco, on May 4, 2026, was a nail-biter that required an additional 10 minutes of play after the teams were tied at 57-57 at the end of regulation. This game marked a significant moment in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) history, being only the second match ever to be decided in double overtime.
Al Ahly's victory was not merely about the scoreboard; it was a testament to their resilience and strategic prowess. Key players Zack Lofton and Malek Abdelgowad each scored 17 points, leading the Egyptian champions to this crucial win. The game was characterized by FUS Rabat's struggle with ball control, resulting in a staggering 22 turnovers, which ultimately proved detrimental to their chances. In comparison, Al Ahly managed to contain their turnovers to just 13, showcasing their superior ball handling and tactical execution.
The matchup was significant for more than just the conference standings, as it added another chapter to the rivalry between these two North African powerhouses. The previous encounter in the 2024 BAL playoffs saw FUS Rabat secure a victory, making this win for Al Ahly not only a matter of ranking but also a point of pride in their historical competition.
The first quarter ended evenly at 10-10, and the teams remained locked at 24-24 at halftime, indicating the tightly contested nature of the game. However, Al Ahly managed to pull ahead in the third quarter, establishing an 11-point lead. Yet, FUS Rabat displayed remarkable tenacity, equalizing the score again to force the first overtime. During this extra period, both teams exchanged leads, but FUS Rabat's inability to maintain possession, with seven turnovers, hampered their efforts to secure a win.
Despite the challenges, FUS Rabat's Mouhamadou Diagne made significant contributions defensively, blocking six shots and grabbing rebounds. However, Al Ahly’s dominance on the boards, particularly their 22 offensive rebounds, allowed them to control the pace of the game effectively. The atmosphere in the packed Moulay Abdellah arena, predominantly filled with FUS Rabat supporters, could not deter the defending champions from executing their game plan and clinching the win.
The win places Al Ahly at the top of the Sahara Conference with a 4-1 record, while FUS Rabat finishes in third place with a 3-2 record. With the conference games concluded, the upcoming quarterfinals of the BAL playoffs promise to be just as exciting, featuring matchups such as Al Ahly facing Ville de Dakar from Senegal and Petro de Luanda taking on Dar City from Tanzania.
As reported by newtimes.co.rw.
