Chus Mateo: “We'll have to be switched on in a number of areas if we want to beat Alba Berlin”
'They're performing well and it's going to be another challenge for us', said Abalde.
Chus Mateo and Alberto Abalde discussed Real Madrid's match against Alba Berlin, in the EuroLeague round nineteen match Thursday, 8pm CET. The coach said: "They're a totally different team to Estrella Roja, they play very fast, they like to have a lot of possessions and they're one of the teams that make the most three-pointers. They've been performing at a high level and the standings don't reflect the danger they pose. Rebounding is always one of the keys factor in basketball. We're generally good in that area but we have to be very careful as they're also a good team in terms of rebounds. They're an athletic team and they like to run. We'll have to be switched on in a number of areas if we want to win".
"We've been trying to play a collective style of play since the beginning of the season, where the strength lies in the team and not in the individuals. Everyone contributes a lot, not only those who play the most but also those who play less. We've got a large squad and the main thing is that the collective is Real Madrid's strength".
Abalde: "Defence and rebounding are key"
"It's going to be another difficult game. We're aware that we've got an intense week ahead of us. We took the first step on Tuesday but this will be another hard game against a team that's performing well, they've just beaten Milan at home and we're going to have to put in a good performance to get the win".
"Wins always give you a lift and boost your confidence, and they also help drive us on to continue to grow and improve. We're pleased but we know that every game is different, it's a new challenge and we have to approach it differently, and we must continue to win".
Important factors
"We have to do what we do well, focus on what we're strong at. Defence and rebounding are always important areas for us. When we're dominant and solid in these areas, we have the base to be consistent and then we can carry out our attacking play. A lot of teams have improved and it's very difficult to pick up a win away from home".