Sistani’s Iran Leave Bahrain in Their Wake

Iran ran out comfortable 95–62 winners against Bahrain in the U16 Asia Cup 5–8 classification, impressing with both their composure and relentless intensity throughout the game. At the M Bank Arena in Ulaanbaatar, Mohammad Sistani Badouei’s side imposed defensive intensity, converted turnovers into fast-break points, and punished Bahrain’s lack of depth without Somto Patrick.

Q1: Rashidi Sets the Tone

The opening frame showed glimpses of balance, with Bahrain tying the game 6–6 off Hassan Abdulkadir’s early baskets. But Iran, through Alireza Rashidi’s steals and transition play, closed the quarter ahead 20–18. Already, the contrast was clear: Bahrain laboring through half-court sets, Iran thriving in transition.

Q2: Iran Capitalizes on Errors

Bahrain briefly pulled within one at 23–22 after Hassan Abdulkadir and Ali AlHaddad scored inside. Yet Iran answered with an 11–0 run fueled by consecutive turnovers, capped by a Khosravi dunk. By halftime, Iran led 43–32, having forced Bahrain into rushed possessions and poor spacing.

Q3: MorovatHalabi Extends Control

The third quarter saw Yasin MorovatHalabi seize the spotlight. His perimeter shooting and drives inside extended Iran’s cushion to 57–42. Bahrain found some relief through Mohamed Adel Abdulla’s late three-pointer, but Iran’s ability to punish every defensive lapse ensured a 65–51 lead heading into the final frame.

Q4: Iran Closes Ruthlessly

Iran’s fourth quarter was a masterclass in transition dominance. Back-to-back scores from Khosravi and MorovatHalabi stretched the margin past 20. Bahrain collapsed under turnovers and fatigue, as Iran ran out 30–11 winners in the final quarter, sealing a 95–62 triumph.

Tactical Breakdown

- Iran dictated momentum: Biggest lead stretched to 35 points, while Bahrain never led

- Possession control: Iran led for 36:49 of game time; Bahrain 0:00

- Turnover pressure: 36 Iranian points came off Bahrain’s 23 turnovers

- Paint and boards: Iran outscored Bahrain 48–40 inside and won the rebounding battle 44–32.

- Second-chance edge: Iran 24–9 in second chance points, fueled by 21 offensive rebounds

- Bench depth: Iran’s reserves added 35 points, dwarfing Bahrain’s 17

- Fast-break parity: Both sides scored 21 in transition, Bahrain’s only equal footing