Oman U18 start with victory over Kuwait, take on Bahrain today

MUSCAT: Oman’s under-18 national basketball team will face one of their toughest tests in the Gulf qualifiers when they take on title contenders Bahrain at Al Gharafa Club Hall in Doha on Monday.
Both teams enter the match with two points after winning their opening fixtures. Oman produced a remarkable late comeback to defeat Kuwait 62-59, while Bahrain began their campaign with a 66-54 victory over Saudi Arabia.
The encounter could play a major role in the race for top spot and qualification for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup, with Oman seeking to build on the confidence gained from their opening success.

Head coach Mohammed al Owaisi and assistant coach Khalid al Harthy led the team’s final training session on Sunday, focusing on correcting the technical errors that appeared against Kuwait while reinforcing the positive aspects of the second-half performance.
The coaching staff also conducted a detailed analysis of Bahrain’s victory over Saudi Arabia, with training centred on defensive organisation, tactical execution and maintaining concentration throughout the four quarters.
Oman began their campaign in difficult circumstances after trailing Kuwait 22-13 at the end of the opening quarter. Kuwait continued to hold the advantage in the second period, winning it 18-16 to lead 40-29 at half-time.

However, Oman responded strongly after the break. They reduced the deficit by taking the third quarter 16-14 before delivering an outstanding defensive performance in the final period, which they won 17-5 to complete a three-point victory.
Mishal Qafqaf led Oman with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Muhab al Hubaishi added 15 points. Al Mulham al Obaidani scored 11 points, Adam al Hinai contributed seven and Azd al Bahlani finished with five.
Oman dominated the rebounding battle 57-40 and scored 46 points in the paint compared with Kuwait’s 22. They also held the advantage in fast-break and second-chance points, factors that proved decisive during the closing stages.

Al Owaisi said the victory had given the players an important psychological boost but stressed that the team must improve ahead of the Bahrain encounter.
“The players showed a very positive reaction in the second half. Our defensive commitment improved, the team played collectively and we gradually worked our way back into the game,” he said.
“Bahrain are among the strongest teams in the competition and are one of the main contenders for the title. They have greater experience and enter the match with confidence after winning the Arab championship two weeks ago and defeating Saudi Arabia in their opening game.”

The coach added that Oman would need to maintain their defensive discipline and collective approach for the entire match.
“Our ambition is to win every game, but that requires a complete performance throughout the four quarters. We trust our players and believe they are capable of producing a performance that reflects positively on Omani basketball,” he said.
Oman’s U18 national basketball team in action against Kuwait during their Gulf qualifiers opener at Al Gharafa Club Hall in Doha.
An Oman player drives towards the basket during the national team’s thrilling 62-59 victory over Kuwait.