In a thrilling Euroleague clash at the Belgrado Arena, Real Madrid showcased their resilience by overcoming a fierce challenge from Estrella Roja, clinching a vital 72-78 victory on March 28, 2025. This hard-fought win marks Madrid's fourth consecutive triumph in the Euroleague, strengthening their playoff aspirations.
The match kicked off with Real Madrid establishing an early lead, closing the first quarter at 9-22, thanks to a stifling defense and effective offensive plays spearheaded by Walter Samuel Tavares and Gabriel Deck. The visitors maintained their dominance into the second quarter, heading into halftime with a comfortable 27-42 advantage.
However, the tide began to turn after the intermission. Estrella Roja, ignited by the stellar performance of Codi Miller-McIntyre, who ended the night with 24 points, started to chip away at Madrid's lead. The Serbian side found their rhythm, finishing the third quarter with a 18-13 run, bringing the score to 60-55 and setting the stage for a dramatic final period.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, Estrella Roja reduced the deficit to just two points at 72-74, igniting a wave of excitement among their home fans. The pressure mounted on Madrid, but they responded with poise. Facundo Campazzo stepped up, converting crucial free throws that pushed Madrid’s lead to four points with only 27 seconds remaining.
Despite their efforts, Estrella Roja couldn’t complete the comeback. Real Madrid’s defense held firm, preventing the home team from executing their plays effectively in the dying moments of the game. The final whistle confirmed Madrid's victory, solidifying their position in the playoff race.
Throughout the match, Tavares was instrumental for Madrid, not only scoring 14 points but also grabbing 10 rebounds and blocking two shots, showcasing his all-around game. Sergio Llull and Campazzo added 11 points each, contributing to the team's balanced offensive effort.
Estrella Roja's performance was commendable, with Miller-McIntyre leading the charge alongside Nikola Kalinic, who scored 16 points. However, despite their spirited effort, the team fell short, missing a golden opportunity to secure their playoff spot with this crucial match.
This victory for Real Madrid not only boosts their confidence but also places them in a four-way tie with Estrella Roja, FC Barcelona, and Anadolu Efes, all vying for playoff positions as the regular season nears its end. The stakes are high as the Euroleague approaches its climax, and each game will be pivotal in determining the playoff landscape.
The intensity of the match was palpable, with both teams exchanging leads and battling fiercely for every point. The atmosphere at the Belgrado Arena was electric, with fans on the edge of their seats as the game unfolded. The players' determination and skill were on full display, making it a memorable encounter for all involved.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will need to carry this momentum into their next fixtures, as they strive to secure a favorable position heading into the playoffs. For Estrella Roja, the challenge will be to regroup and focus on their upcoming matches, ensuring they capitalize on their home-court advantage in future games.
As the Euroleague season progresses, every game counts, and the battle for playoff spots intensifies. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters as teams push themselves to the limit in pursuit of glory.
