Ahmedabad, Aug. 16 (SANA)Syria’s under-18basketball teamsecured a place in the next round of theFIBA U18 Asia Cupafter defeating Lebanon 72-64 on Saturday in their second Group B match inAhmedabad, India.

Syria controlled much of the game and built a 10-point halftime lead at 36-26.Lebanonfought back in the third quarter to narrow the gap, but Syria held firm in the final period to seal an eight-point victory.

Yahya Qassas played a key role with his three-point shooting, while Majak dominated under the basket as Syria closed out the game.

The result securedSyria’s qualificationfor the knockout stage, with the team set to faceBahrainon Monday in their final group match to determine the standings.

Syria opened the tournament with a narrow 67-58 defeat to New Zealand, while Lebanon lost their first match to Bahrain.

New Zealand currently lead Group B with two wins, followed by Bahrain. Syria sit third with one victory, while Lebanon remain fourth.

The tournament features 16 teams divided into four groups. The group winners advance directly to the quarterfinals, while teams finishing second and third compete in qualifying playoffs for the remaining quarterfinal places.