AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - Angola has broken free from the offensive doldrums that have plagued their tournament, outscoring Iran 25-12 in a decisive third quarter to set up a thrilling 9-point victory at the FIBA U19 World Championship in New Zealand.

Playing for positions 13-16, Iran took a 23-11 quarter time lead, and looked set for an easy victory. But Angola hung tough in the second quarter to be within 9 points at half time, before unleashing their third quarter burst.

After shooting just 9/30 from the field in the first half, the African runners up nailed 8/18 field goals as they took their first lead of the game, 39-37, with 4:19 remaining in the period.

Forward Eduardo Ferreira led the way with 6 points for the third quarter and 19 for the game. Miguel Kiala continued his excellent form inside with 14 points, 20 rebounds and 3 blocks, as Angola scored 30 points in the paint to Iran’s 16.

Angola led 50-43 at the last break, and held on to win after Iran closed to 52-48 with 7:04 to play in the game. The final score was 62-53, and came about despite Angola shooting just 13/28 from the free throw line.

For Iran, it was the second time in the tournament they have given up a double figure lead and lost, and the Asian champions are now confined to playing the loser of New Zealand and Syria for 15th and 16th position in the tournament.

Their best performer today was captain Arsalan Kazemi with 19 points, 20 rebounds and 4 steals. No other player reached double figures for Iran, who shot just 5/37 in the second half.

Angola will finish their tournament in the playoff for 13th position, which would equal their best ever performance at a FIBA U19 World Championship.

FIBA