Matchday 33 brought a high-stakes clash between direct rivals for the play-offs, with Tel Aviv arriving in strong form after winning four games in a row. Their confidence, especially in offense, was to be expected following a stunning performance against Virtus where they dropped 65 points in the first half alone.
Real Madrid, however, had history on their side, having won the first meeting in Israel, and entered the game chasing a 12th consecutive home victory. Los Blancos haven’t lost at home since November. Star player Mario Hezonja emphasized beforehand the need for maximum focus against a surging opponent—and that intensity showed from the opening tip.
The first quarter ended 24:19, but it was already clear that emotions were running high for Tel Aviv, with visible frustration creeping into their game. That tension spilled over in a heated moment involving a foul on Hezonja, which sent the opposing coach into a fit of rage—audibly clear in the unusual silence of a game without an audience.
By halftime, Madrid had extended their lead to 45:35, maintaining control while absorbing Tel Aviv’s bursts of energy. The third quarter, however, turned into a shooting spectacle. Both teams combined for eight consecutive three-pointers, with Real Madrid accounting for five of them, pushing the score to 71:60.
In the final quarter, Madrid managed the game with composure, closing it out 92:83 and continuing their dominant home streak.
