Hapoel Tel Aviv Stages Dramatic Comeback Against Real Madrid in EuroLeague Thriller

Hapoel Tel Aviv staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Real Madrid 102-98 in a dramatic EuroLeague game, overcoming a 22-point deficit. The Israeli team initially built a significant lead, but Real Madrid fought back, only for Hapoel to rally in the final quarter. Spanish media reacted to the surprising turn of events, with some outlets highlighting Real Madrid's "desperate" play in the closing moments.

Reports from Spain noted that while Real Madrid played an "amazing" third quarter, Hapoel Tel Aviv, led by Bryant, "woke up" in the final period. Spanish commentators observed that Real Madrid resorted to "desperate basketball" and that Hapoel showed impressive "character." Specific criticisms were leveled at Eddie Tavares for defensive lapses, and some noted that Real Madrid "disappeared" after closing the gap.

Earlier in the game, some Spanish observers had a different perspective, with one commentator stating Hapoel "simply collapsed" and another suggesting they "tried to play more complicated basketball in the third quarter and lost the game." During halftime, a commentator noted that Eddie Tavares was "completely open" defensively, and the "game plan was working perfectly."

However, the final outcome saw Hapoel Tel Aviv secure a crucial victory, improving their standing in the EuroLeague. Spanish media acknowledged Hapoel's ability to "escape the pressure well" and make "smart decisions under pressure," praising their improved defense and offense, especially against a Real Madrid team that "lost its head" in the final minutes and fell to a 0-3 record. One outlet suggested that "everything went Hapoel's way" initially, with Real's defense only appearing in the second half.