- 10:40
Mission accomplished for the two Lebanese giants: the Yellows finished undefeated, Sagesse got back on track then took advantage of a helping hand from its eternal rival to validate its ticket to the semi-finals of the WASL Final 8.
The Naufal Stadium witnessed a double celebration. On Wednesday, the Yellows dominated Ittihad without their playmaker Wael Arakji, validating a perfect group stage. Immediately after, Sagesse soared past Astana, then—just for one match—became Riyadi’s biggest supporter. Thanks to the victory of the reigning champions against the Saudis, the Greens also punched their ticket for the semi-finals of the WASL Final 8.
La Sagesse Strikes Back
Reeling after a heavy derby defeat (101–71), La Sagesse bared its fangs at the right moment to bounce back. Led by an incandescent Zach Lofton (23 pts), Ilias Zouros’ men crushed Astana (113-90) in an electric atmosphere at the Naufal. A response full of character, paired with a collective masterclass: six players scored in double digits, including a decisive performance from Eli Rustom in the second quarter.
But beyond the performance, it was the stakes that mattered: with this win, Sagesse improved to 2–1 in Group A and had to hope that Riyadi would defeat Ittihad in the next match. And the Yellows delivered with authority. As a result, the Greens finished second in their group and secured their ticket to the final four.
The Yellows at Full Speed
Without Wael Arakji but brimming with confidence, the Yellows contained Ittihad’s fervor (97–87) to complete a flawless 3/3 group stage. Though the Saudis made several comeback attempts, Marin Maric cooled the momentum with 10 consecutive points in the final quarter, before Ali Mansour and Karim Zeinoun sealed the deal.
Statistically, Riyadi once again showcased its depth: six players scored in double figures, Amir Saoud recorded a double-double (10 pts, 10 ast), and Thon Maker dominated the paint with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks… The steamroller is rolling. And it did its part: by beating Ittihad, the Yellows also opened the door for their eternal rival to join them in the final four.
Clash at the Top
The two Lebanese clubs now advance to the semi-finals, awaiting their opponents from Group B. One thing is certain: after a roller-coaster season, La Sagesse has found its second wind at the best moment. Riyadi marches on with the calm confidence of champions. Lebanon now has two contenders in the WASL Final Four — and maybe, just maybe, a 100% Lebanese final on the horizon? We’re already salivating at the thought.
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