Al Ahly edge FUS Rabat in double overtime to top Sahara Conference

Basketball Africa League action in the 2026 Sahara Conference delivered one of its most dramatic encounters as Al Ahly edged FUS Rabat 76–71 after a grueling double-overtime battle in Rabat, securing top spot in the standings with a 4–1 record.

Played at the Moulay Abdellah Arena on May 3, the contest underlined why both sides are considered among Africa’s elite.

The game was finely balanced from the outset, with both teams locked at 10–10 after the first quarter and 24–24 at halftime.

Even after regulation ended at 57–57, neither side could be separated, forcing overtime—and eventually a second extra period, only the second double-overtime game in BAL history.

Al Ahly appeared to seize control in the third quarter, building an 11-point lead, but FUS Rabat responded with resilience, outscoring their opponents 19–11 in the fourth to force overtime.

However, costly mistakes proved decisive. FUS Rabat committed 22 turnovers overall, including seven in the extra periods, compared to Al Ahly’s 13—ultimately handing the Egyptian champions the edge.

Standout performances came from Zack Lofton and Malek Abdelgowad, who each scored 17 points, with Abdelgowad also dominating the boards with 18 rebounds.

Contributions from Johnathan Jordan and Mohamed Khalaf off the bench further strengthened Al Ahly’s depth.

For FUS Rabat, Anthony Pritchard led with 14 points, while Will Perry, Soufiane Benmhine, Badr Azouga and Kuany Kuany all reached double figures, though their efforts were undermined by inefficiency in key moments.

The result not only secured Al Ahly’s place atop the Sahara Conference but also avenged their 2024 BAL defeat to FUS Rabat in Kigali, adding extra significance to the win.

Attention now shifts to the 2026 BAL Finals, scheduled for May 22–31 in Kigali at the BK Arena.

Africa’s top eight teams will compete in a knockout format, where margins are tight and experience often proves decisive.

Based on performances in Rabat, Al Ahly will enter the finals as strong contenders, combining depth, defensive discipline, and rebounding dominance. 

As the BAL Finals approach, Kigali is set to host another thrilling conclusion to Africa’s premier basketball competition.

Photos