Madrid takes the lead in the EuroLeague playoff

Real Madrid gains an advantage in the EuroLeague playoffs against Hapoel Tel Aviv after winning the first game played at the Movistar Arena. Our team had an excellent start and demonstrated their home strength, achieving 15 consecutive victories. Scariolo's team overcame the injury of Tavares two minutes into the game with an outstanding first half in which they achieved a 15-point lead that they later defended solidly despite the visitors' late push. Campazzo (21 points, 6 three-pointers, and an 18 efficiency rating) led five players with double-digit efficiency ratings: Lyles 15, Okeke 14, Hezonja 12, and Len 10.

The start of the playoff was set to test Real Madrid. Three minutes in, with Hapoel Tel Aviv ahead, Tavares left limping due to a knee issue. A significant setback. But instead of lowering their morale, it made them stronger, more solid, and brought out their best version. Campazzo took control and, with a three-point shooting recital (4 for 13 points), propelled his team forward. Okeke and Garuba, omnipresent across the court (combining for 6 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block), perfectly replaced the Cape Verdean center. Oturu was the only support for the Israeli side in a first quarter where Scariolo's team had zero turnovers (27-18, min. 10).

Madridista dominance
Madrid momentarily took Hapoel Tel Aviv out of the game. The second unit maintained the level, and on two occasions when their opponent tried to react through Blakeney, they encountered a strong response. Lyles (7 points), Deck (6), and Feliz (4) scored the points; Len provided presence in the paint (5 rebounds). With the Ukrainian, Oturu started to fade. A basket by Hezonja extended the lead to 20 points with a 46-26 at the 17th minute, which was reduced by halftime after an 8-2 run in favor of the visitors (48-33).

Hapoel managed to break free from Madrid's defense and score more frequently, always through Oturu and now also with Jones and Micic. They tried to change the dynamic with a zone defense, but Madrid remained patient and avoided rushing under their opponent's pressure (only three turnovers in 30 minutes). The excellent work on offensive rebounds by Okeke (4 in the third quarter) compensated for our team's lower outside accuracy, which, however, continued scoring near the rim with the contribution of Hezonja and through an impeccable 14/14 free throw shooting (70-55, min. 30).

Madrid held the lead until the end
Scariolo's team controlled the game without sealing it. They also didn't face much trouble, maintaining a comfortable lead. Hapoel made a first attempt to change the outcome with a quick 0-7 run following an unsportsmanlike foul on Deck and a technical foul on Scariolo in the same play. But Madrid responded with offensive rebounds and contributions from Maledon, Lyles, and Campazzo's sixth three-pointer, matching his best EuroLeague mark, effectively securing the game at 82-64 with 4 minutes to go. However, the Israelis didn't give up and managed to challenge Madrid, forcing them to dig deep in the final minute with an 86-82 scoreline. A block by Len and a recovery sealed the victory and the first point of the series.

Real Madrid-Hapoel Tel Aviv Statistics

Disclaimer: Translation generated by artificial intelligence. It may contain inaccuracies.

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