13/10/2025
Ittihad Impressive Comeback to Defeat Al Shabab Al Ahli 94–88 in FIBA WASL Gulf
Rita Abi Khalil:
In a high-intensity clash that opened their FIBA WASL Gulf campaign, Ittihad secured their first tournament win with a 94–88 comeback victory over Al Shabab Al Ahli.
The game was defined by two contrasting halves: early dominance from Ahli and a disciplined, tactical response from Ittihad.
First Half: Washington on Fire
Al Shabab Al Ahli opened the game strongly, taking the first quarter 28–22. Dishwandre Washington delivered an individual performance, scoring 26 points and grabbing 9 rebounds in the first half alone. His fast tempo, unselfish play, and leadership gave Ahli early momentum.
The chemistry between Washington and Dikembe Dixson created several fast-break opportunities, including a highlight dunk. Majok, however, was forced to the bench early due to foul trouble, which limited Ahli’s interior presence.
Mohammad Al Marwani: one of the UAE’s top local scorers contributed solidly, but physical conditioning remains a factor that could elevate his impact even more. Meanwhile, Ittihad struggled to find rhythm offensively in the first 20 minutes, as Ahli entered halftime ahead 44–39.
Second Half: Ittihad’s Tactical Shift
Coming out of the locker room, Ittihad shifted their defensive structure mixing man-to-man coverage with brief zone sequences effectively neutralizing Washington’s scoring threat in the third and fourth quarters.
Under coach Slobodan’s guidance, Ittihad increased their defensive intensity, forcing tougher shot selections from Ahli. Erick Neal led the comeback with composure and vision, finishing with 25 points and 17 assists, orchestrating the offense with impressive control.
Nasr Absi (15 PTS, 4 REB) delivered key baskets in clutch moments, while Jarell Eddie (19 PTS, 8 REB) and Ibrahima Faye (13 PTS, 6 REB) gave strong support inside and out. Ittihad’s balanced attack contrasted with Ahli’s heavy dependence on Washington.
Key Stats
• Al Shabab Al Ahli:
• Washington: 39 PTS, 9 REB, 7 AST
• Dixson: 21 PTS, 3 REB
• Majok: 11 PTS, 12 REB
• Team 3PT: 6/21 (28.6%)
• Ittihad:
• Neal: 25 PTS, 17 AST, 6 REB
• Eddie: 19 PTS, 8 REB
• Absi: 15 PTS
• Faye: 13 PTS, 6 REB
• Team FG: 50% overall
Ahli’s 6-of-21 from three-point range and lack of scoring support beyond Washington ultimately hurt their chances, while Ittihad’s more structured team play proved decisive.
MVP Performance
Erick Neal earned MVP of the game, driving Ittihad’s comeback with a complete performance. “We got some stops, we played good defense,” Neal said postgame, crediting the team’s collective effort.
For Al Shabab Al Ahli, the loss highlighted the need for more balanced scoring and improved shot selection under pressure. Ittihad, meanwhile, will look to build on their momentum.
Photo credit: official wasl (instagram)
