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Amir Basketball Cup: Al Arabi Eye Treble, Al Sadd Target Fifth Title

Doha: Al Arabi and Al Sadd are set to clash on Wednesday at Al Gharafa Hall in the final of the 27th Amir Cup basketball tournament for the 2025-2026 season.

According to Qatar News Agency, Al Arabi is aiming for a historic treble, having already secured victories in the league and the Qatar Cup. Al Sadd, on the other hand, is looking to salvage their season by clinching a fifth Amir Cup title. Last season, Al Arabi finished as runners-up to Al Rayyan with a score of 70-77, but they were victorious in the 2023-2024 cup against Al Sadd with an 87-78 win.

With strong fan backing and a bolstered lineup, Al Arabi made it to the final by defeating Qatar 104-73 and Al Ahli 89-70. Al Sadd, supported by a combination of key local and foreign players, reached the final by overcoming Al Shamal 107-96 and Al Rayyan 87-72. They are pursuing their first Amir Cup title in two seasons.

The Amir Cup, which began in the 1999-2000 season, has seen Al Rayyan as the most successful club with ten titles and 15 final appearances, followed by Al Gharafa with five titles, Al Sadd with four, and Al Arabi with three.

Officials and players from both clubs have expressed their ambitions ahead of the final. Al Arabi basketball chief Abdulrahman Abu Faisal emphasized the team's push for victory and a historic treble, acknowledging that finals are often decided by narrow margins. Coach Hatem Mamlouk expressed his confidence in his players despite acknowledging the strength of Al Sadd, while player Abdulrahman Saad affirmed his readiness to secure a third title this season.

Al Sadd basketball chief Khaled Al Tamimi mentioned that reaching the final is an expectation for the club, underlining their determination to claim the title after missing out on the league and Qatar Cup trophies. Coach Cengiz Karadag praised his team's performances and expressed the aim to maintain momentum, with player Mustafa Fouda hopeful of capturing a fifth title.

Qatar Basketball Federation Secretary-General Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari stated that all preparations for the final are complete, anticipating strong attendance and hoping for a high-level match that reflects the development of domestic competitions as Qatar prepares for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.