Iran only took the lead in the final minute, but it was enough to complete a stunning 21-point comeback against Chinese Taipei in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 quarterfinals.
Iran pulled off a stunning rally to book its place in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 semifinals, erasing a 21-point deficit to edge Chinese Taipei, 78-75, early Thursday (PH time) at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Still down by double digits entering the fourth quarter, Iran roared back and took its first lead with just 42 seconds remaining after Mohammad Amini sank a free throw.
Amini then delivered the dagger layup with 12 seconds left, capping a huge performance with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists.
Chinese Taipei still had chances to extend the game, but Ting-Chien Lin — who led the team with 22 points — missed a crucial free throw that would have tied it at 76 and later misfired on a potential game-tying three in their final possession.
The loss ended a promising campaign for Taipei, which was aiming for its first semifinal appearance since 2013.
Iran, meanwhile, advances to face two-time defending champion Australia in a rematch of the 2017 Finals.
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]