DUBAI, 17th June, 2023 (WAM) — With their sights set on a historic medal, Iran men became the first team to enter the semi-finals of the IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships Dubai 2022 here on Friday. In a thrilling and high-intensity match, Iran pipped Germany 70-68 to enter the semi-finals for second consecutive time after their appearance in Hamburg 2018 Worlds. Later, Netherlands and USA men joined Iran in the top-four beating Canada and Australia in other exciting matches. While Netherlands overcame Canada 68-53 after close third and fourth quarters, thanks to Mendel Op Den Orth’s 32-point show, USA rallied to beat Australia 47-32 riding on Steve Serio’s efforts (14 points). Meanwhile, defending champions Great Britain defeated Italy 72-44, with Gregg Warburton top scoring with 32 points. Close contest in women’s events In the women’s events, defending and Paralympic champions Netherlands defeated USA 66-57 in a close contest to top Group A and will meet Canada in their quarter-finals. Canada meanwhile beat China 54-50 in their last Group B match. However, Great Britain women fell at the hands of Australia in the last league game 63-52. Australia meet Germany in the quarters who overcame Japan 61-52. The road to Paris 2024 Paralympic Games begins at the World Championships here as top four teams earn a slot each to the continental championships, the podium finishers of which will qualify for Paris 2024. Amjad Saleh
Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)