European Media Praises Maccabi Tel Aviv's Tactical Prowess and Grit

Maccabi Tel Aviv's impressive 91-88 victory over Valencia in the EuroLeague has garnered significant praise from the Spanish media, who highlighted coach Oded Katash's tactical preparation and the team's toughness. Spanish commentators lauded Katash's decision to make the game physical, noting that Maccabi played more fluidly than Valencia from the outset and exploited weaknesses in the home team's defense. The media specifically pointed out player Roman Sorkin's dominant performance against opponents Rivers and Sako, and the fact that six Maccabi players scored in double figures.

Yam Madar also received accolades for his 11 points and his effective game management, which quickly got Maccabi into the contest. Local outlet Cadena SER recalled Madar's previous success against Valencia in the EuroCup while playing for Hapoel Tel Aviv, noting his ability to involve the team's big men who capitalized on Valencia's weak interior defense and lack of toughness from Dylan Osetkowski. Spanish newspaper AS described Madar as having "almost made every shot that came his way" in the opening minutes.

El País focused on Maccabi's strong defensive effort, which dictated the game's tempo and forced Valencia into difficult outside shots. Valencia's 11-of-38 three-point shooting contrasted sharply with Maccabi's 14-of-24, with the paper attributing the win to Katash's defense and superior three-point shooting. Greek outlet Novasports described Maccabi as a tough team that consistently exploited Valencia's weaknesses.

Conversely, Spanish media was critical of Valencia, with AS suggesting that fatigue and a lack of energy hampered the home team, though they acknowledged Maccabi's strong performance. Cadena SER stated Valencia paid a "heavy, but deserved" price for its lack of toughness, and AS concluded that recent losses demonstrated how difficult it is to win in the EuroLeague.