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Japan seal key victory over Palestine

Xinhua, September 28, 2015 Adjust font size:

Japan had a crucial victory in a Group E game against Palestine by beating the Western Asian team 74-67 at FIBA Asia Championship on Monday.

This victory was important in Japan's fighting for the quarter-final spot. With a winning record over both Palestine and India, Japan was already in an advantageous position over the possible rivals en route to the final eight.

Japanese center Takeuchi Joji led the team with 21 points and 19 rebounds. Hiejima Kakoto and Matsui Keijuro had 13 and 12 points respectively.

Japan collected as many as 53 rebounds throughout the game, 17 more than Palestine.

Palestine suffered two straight losses. The team will need to beat the defending champion Iran on Tuesday to secure a quarter-final berth.

Sani Sakakini, captain of Palestine, had a game-high 27 points. Jamal Abu Shamala added 22, including four baskets beyond the arc.

Palestine led Japan 21-12 after the first quarter, but Japan outscored the opponent 24-16 in the second to move back into the game.

The second half saw a more efficient Japan team, while Palestine was slow on the offensive side.

Japan will encounter Hong Kong on Tuesday. Enditem