TEHRAN – Iran defeated Kyrgyzstan 73-40 on Tuesday at the 2024 FIBA U-18 Women's Asia Cup Division B.

Iran took care of business against Kyrgyzstan in a physical encounter with Mahsa Karani once again leading the way to finish with 18 points, 6 rebounds running at 15 efficiency. Atena Jafarzadeh played a pivotal role early on when Kyrgyzstan was applying pressure with Helya Houdneh instrumental under the rim at both ends to finish with 6 rebounds, 4 offensive and 3 defensive.

Iran had defeated Hong Kong 65-52 in its opening match.

Samoa and Iran ready for an epic challenge on Wednesday with both countries undefeated heading into the final day of the group phase.

“None of these games are easy for us until we make them easy, our motto is being tough of defense for the full 40 minutes, because this is what will keep us in games and competitive,” Coach Kapogianni said.

“We know we are not the favorites at this tournament, but we are going step, by step, doing our best and seeing what happens.”

Poised their final group match against Samoa tomorrow, with both teams undefeated, Coach Kapogianni know her girls will embrace the challenge. “Samoa is the favorite but we will go back, watch the tape, and we will put our best effort in. This means a lot for Iran Basketball, and Iran, everything comes at the right time, so everything will come when we are ready.”