Petro de Luanda reached to BAL season 6 final after dramatic win over Al Ahly Ly.

The semifinal encounter between Petro de Luanda and Al Ahly Ly lived up to expectations as two of Africa’s basketball powerhouses battled for a place in the BAL Season 6 final. Al Ahly Ly started the game aggressively and controlled the tempo for most of the contest. Their ball movement, points from turnovers, fast break points, transition offense, and rebounding superiority allowed the Libyan side to dominate the opening three quarters. Al Ahly Ly ended three quarters with 70 points to 65 of Petro Luanda.

Al Ahly Ly’s backcourt once again proved dangerous, especially through Charlie Moore, whose pace and creativity consistently troubled Petro’s defense. The Libyan side also benefited from disciplined spacing and efficient shooting from Donavan Kennedy who dropped 30 points, elements that had already defined their impressive playoff campaign. Statistics from recent BAL reports showed Al Ahly Ly averaging over 23 assists per game and maintaining one of the strongest offensive records in the tournament. (Bal.nba.com)

Donavan Kennedy Williams shooting from corner (source: bal.nba.com)

However, Petro de Luanda demonstrated why they remain one of the most experienced teams in BAL history. The Angolan champions refused to collapse under pressure and gradually shifted momentum late in the third quarter before completely taking over in the fourth quarter where they dropped 29-18. 

Dundao emerged as the game’s defining figure. The Petro guard delivered an outstanding all-around performance, bringing energy, defensive intensity, and crucial scoring when his team needed it most. His leadership sparked Petro’s comeback and changed the rhythm of the match. Dundao’s composure in transition and ability to attack the paint gave Petro the edge during the decisive moments, and he ended with 26 points.

Experienced players such as Chasson Randle and Raphael Putney also stepped up for Petro de Luanda, helping the team improve defensively while executing smarter offensive possessions in the fourth quarter. Petro’s defensive discipline became the turning point, forcing Al Ahly Ly into difficult shots after the Libyan side had looked comfortable for much of the game.

Petro de Luanda against Al Ahly Ly at BK Arena (source: bal.nba.com)

For Al Ahly Ly, Charlie Moore remained the standout performer alongside Majok Deng, who contributed important points and rebounds throughout the game. Despite their strong start and dominance for long stretches, the Libyan side struggled to maintain control in the closing minutes as Petro’s experience in high-pressure BAL games became evident.

The victory sends Petro de Luanda to the BAL final for the third consecutive time, further cementing their reputation as one of the continent’s elite basketball organizations. Petro de Luanda will face RSSB Tigers Sunday 6:00 PM after the game of the third place between Al Ahly SC and Al Ahly Ly, which will start at 3:00 PM local time.

Jacques Roger NSHIMIYIMANA