The three-time Asian Cup champions improved to 3-0, setting the final eight meetings to the quarterfinals in qualifying in the clash between Taipei and Jordan in China. According to the Tehran Times, Syria, who finished 0-3, resigned from the tournament after another fight, but it’s a frustrating night.
Sina Vahedi was once again a steady hand for Iran, producing 19 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steels. However, the knockout hit was Mathin Agadjampur, erupting a game-high 24 points in six triples, including six quarter gusts.
“Every game is tough,” Agadjanpur said after the match. “Syria is a very good team. We didn’t play well in the first half, but in the second half we listened to the coach and did our job.”
For Syria, losses marked the end of the Asian Cup run, but their first half performances showed the grit and organization that plagued Iran with long stretches. Deshields’ scoring and defensive activities remained competitive until the floodgates opened.
Meanwhile, Iran reminded fans why they were one of the regional elites, weathered adversity, could turn the game upside down in minutes, and got a decisive victory on multiple offensive weapons. As Vahedi was controlled and Aghajanpour fired from Deep, they now have momentum and focused on the final stage, and Fiba.Basketball reported.
“I think there’s a game between the winners of Taipei and Jordan in China,” Agadjampur pointed out. “Both teams are tough, but they just go for victory.”
MNA