The Lebanese male basketball team under 16 is just one step away from qualifying for the World Cup, as they only need a victory against their South Korean counterparts on Friday at 8:15 PM in the quarterfinals to participate in the World Cup to be hosted in Málaga, Spain, from July 2 to 10.
In the second round of the Asian Championship taking place in the Qatari capital, Doha, until Sunday, the Lebanese team achieved a significant victory over Qatar with a score of 78-54 on Thursday, before a large audience, especially from the Lebanese community. Present were the Secretary-General of the Asian Federation, Hagop Khajirian, and the President of the Qatari Federation, Mohammad Al Mughaiseb.
The Lebanese team, led by coach Rabih Francis and supported on the field by mission head Hicham Geradi (a member of the federation in the accounting position), succeeded in imposing their rhythm from the start of the match, showcasing a clear advantage with all players performing at a high level and raising the challenge flag against the South Korean team, with the two teams having met on multiple occasions in men's categories.
Thus, Lebanon is awaiting a crucial match on Friday evening against the South Koreans, with their sights set on victory to ensure qualification for the World Cup, marking a new achievement for Lebanese basketball not only for the men's and women's teams but also for age group teams.
After the match, the President of the Lebanese Basketball Federation, Akram Halabi, contacted the head of the Lebanese mission, Hicham Geradi, to congratulate him and request that he convey his regards and those of the Lebanese basketball family to the team members, wishing them success in the decisive match on Friday. It is noteworthy that the Asian Championship serves as a qualifier for the World Cup, with the four teams that qualify for the semifinals in the continental tournament participating in the World Cup alongside teams from all continents.
