European Media Stunned by Maccabi Tel Aviv's Early EuroLeague Struggles

Maccabi Tel Aviv has begun its EuroLeague season with a disappointing 0-2 record after two painful losses to ASVEL and Besiktas. The team's slow start has drawn surprise and commentary from European sports media, particularly in Turkey.

Spanish journalist Gerard Solé of DAZN noted the stark contrast between Maccabi's struggles and other teams' situations, stating, "But what is happening at Maccabi, that's another league. What drama. Already at 2-0 after a one-sided loss to Besiktas." He highlighted the team's unexpected and significant early-season difficulties.

Turkish media outlets also focused on Besiktas's dominant performance against Maccabi. TRT Spor reported that Besiktas, like Anadolu Efes previously, set a club record for three-pointers made in a EuroLeague game with 17, attributing the high scoring to Maccabi's "easy defense." Pianetabasket described the game as being "controlled from start to finish by Besiktas," emphasizing their "pace, physicality, and accuracy" throughout the match.

Mackolik reported that Besiktas "easily defeated Maccabi" and broke EuroLeague scoring records in the process. Turkish reporter Fırat İyileştirici commented on the immense value of the win for Besiktas, not only for rebuilding confidence but also for sending a clear message to rivals. He even observed that at moments, Maccabi fans in the stands were cheering.