The Euroleague leader remains infallible at WiZink Center

Real Madrid are making steady progress in the Euroleague. Less than 48 hours after winning at Bayern Munich, they did the same against Valencia Basket at the WiZink Center in the fifth Euroleague double-header. Chus Mateo's team ratified their unbeaten home record, although they had to suffer to take the game in overtime after coming from behind in the second half. Tenth consecutive victory to equal the third best start in their history. In total, 19 wins in 21 games for the undisputed leader of the competition. A great day in which our captain, Sergio Llull, as well as being one of the most outstanding players (16 points with 4 three-pointers), received a tribute for his record number of games as a madridista. In addition, Alocén became a centenarian in our jersey. A great performance by Tavares (18 points, 19 rebounds, a new personal record, and 32 PIR) and Campazzo (19 points, 7 assists and 28 PIR).

The tribute to Llull gave way to a first quarter in which we struggled to get into the game. We trailed against a Valencia Basket team that imposed its strong defence and contained our attack. Their four three-pointers and the scoring of Jones and Davies (15 points between them), allowed them to take a 10-point lead at 11-21. Tavares, with four points and four rebounds, was the best of the home side in these opening minutes (16-24, min.10).

Reaction from the leader
Madrid were unable to change the dynamic of the game. Their lack of success in the three-pointer prevented them from scoring regularly. On the other hand, Valencia Basket did find some help from the bench, this time with Jovic and Pradilla at the forefront. Without Poirier, who did not suit up today, Tavares and Ndiaye formed the pivot duo. The academy graduate provided energy and the Cape Verdean was the team's benchmark player (10 points and 7 rebounds at half-time). Down 11 points at the midway point of the second half, the leaders began to show their true defensive prowess. It soon took effect and stopped the Taronjas from scoring, leaving them with just two points in the next four minutes for a 10-2 run in our favour with Llull and Musa joining the attack (35-40, min.20).

The game resumed after the break with a quarter of an hour delay due to a problem with the clock in one of the baskets. This circumstance did not discourage Madrid, who continued to increase their lead (11-3) thanks to an improvement in three-pointers and Musa picking up the offensive baton. In 11 minutes, from 15' to 26', they turned the game around with a 23-9 run that put us ahead for the second time (46-43). But it was a tricky game, due to the opponent and the continuous stoppages that made it impossible to get into a better rhythm. However, Chus Mateo's team kept their aggressiveness at the back and the appearance of Yabusele and Campazzo, with 11 of the team's last 13 points, led us to a +3 advantage at the end of the third quarter (58-55).

Another game goes to overtime
Valencia Basket were playing their game very well. They entered the last quarter better, with a 15-6 run in their favour between Davies and Puerto (64-70, min.36). It was time to row again, but now with only four minutes to go. It was time to bring out their strength as a team. All together. Hezonja, with a 3+1, levelled the game; Jones insisted on ruining our team's effort. Sergio Rodríguez, the incredible Llull and Campazzo stepped up. Two three-pointers from the latter and two free throws from Hezonja gave us a three-point lead with three seconds left. In desperation, Harper scored an unlikely three-pointer to send the game into overtime (82-82).

Always believe in victory
That is Real Madrid's maxim, and it was proved once again. They got up from the blow with greater strength and drive. Llull continues adding to his legend with each passing game. And that makes 1,048. Five points from him, playing with a limp due to a knock, unlocked overtime and the path to victory. The team no longer allowed anything to Valencia Basket, which it almost completely annulled. They stepped on the gas in offence, with Musa, Hezonja and a Tavares who finished with 19 rebounds, his best tally ever. Five great collective minutes that led to a definitive 14-4 lead. Llull, honoured at the start, also left to a standing ovation at the end (96-86, min.40). Another triumph sealed with Madrid DNA.

REAL MADRID-VALENCIA BASKET STATISTICS