Panathinaikos AKTOR delivered an exemplary defensive performance to secure a commanding victory over Real Madrid (85-70) in Round 28 of the EuroLeague, maintaining their position in the top four of the standings.
The Greek side started strong, quickly taking the lead (14-9 at 7’) thanks to their effective defensive strategy and finished the first quarter with an 11-point advantage (24-13).
Despite Real Madrid’s efforts, Panathinaikos AKTOR remained in control, never allowing the gap to shrink below six points (33-27 at 16’). As a result, the first half concluded with the hosts ahead by seven (40-33).
At the beginning of the third quarter, the visitors launched another offensive push, but each attempt was met with solid resistance. A six-point lead (48-42 at 25’) quickly turned into a 13-point margin (61-48 at 29’), with Panathinaikos AKTOR denying Real Madrid any hopes of a comeback.
Even when the Spanish side managed to reduce the deficit to six once again (63-57 at 33’), Panathinaikos AKTOR shifted gears and sealed an emphatic 85-70 victory in Round 28 of the EuroLeague.
QUARTERS: 24-13, 40-33, 63-53, 85-70.
PANATHINAIKOS AKTOR (Ataman): Kalaitzakis, Brown 3 (1), Sloukas 10, Osman 9 (1), Samodurov, Papapetrou, Grant 11 (2), Pleiss, Nunn 18 (2), Gabriel 7, Hernangomez 12 (2), Mitoglou 15 (2).
REAL MADRID (Mateo): Abalde 2, Campazzo 4, Gonzalez 2, Hezonja 18 (1), Musa 12, Garuba, Ibaka, Fernando 6, Tavares 16, Llull 10 (2), Feliz, Endiaye.
Ataman: "Grant Played the Perfect Game"
Ergin Ataman highlighted Panathinaikos AKTOR’s strong defensive performance in their home victory over Real Madrid and the key factors that contributed to yet another positive result for his team.
Following the game, the Panathinaikos AKTOR head coach stated:
"We started the game with a good rhythm. We played aggressive defense against Campazzo and Hezonja, not allowing them to play comfortably. We controlled the game in the first quarter, and our defense was perfect. Offensively, we missed some easy shots. Real Madrid came back with Hezonja’s baskets. However, we extended the lead with three-pointers from Mitoglou, Hernangómez, and Grant, who played the perfect game."
On Mathias Lessort and the football team: "I believe we are finding our rhythm at this stage of the season. I hope that Yurtseven and Lessort will be ready for the final stretch of the regular season, possibly for the playoffs. We still have six games left, and we aim to win at least four to secure a top-four finish. It is crucial for us to stay on this path. Now, we will start focusing on the derby against Olympiacos. It was a fantastic night for all Panathinaikos fans. Congratulations to the football team as well."
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