Fenerbahçe Takes Command Against Girona with dominant Meesseman performance 87-69 Victory

Under the watchful eyes of Nando De Colo and his daughter, Fenerbahçe players lived up to their favorite status and took a serious option on qualification for the Final Six semifinals. After a slow-burning contest, the Turkish club prevailed 87-69 in the first leg of their playoff against Girona.

The victory owes much to Emma Meesseman‘s influence and the a solid performance from the French pair Gabby Williams and Iliana Dossou-Yovo Rupert, who combined for 30 points on the night.

Nothing she can't do 🐐#EuroLeagueWomen x @fbkadinbasket pic.twitter.com/ilkDPxTlqw

— EuroLeague Women (@EuroLeagueWomen) February 18, 2026

Early Spanish Lead Quickly Overturned

While the Spanish side grabbed the early lead at the start of the match, their advantage lasted only one minute – just enough time for the Istanbul-based team to settle into their rhythm. Gabby Williams and Emma Meesseman took control in the first period, helping their team head into halftime with a narrow 37-35 advantage.

The game’s decisive moment came in the second half, when the home team exploded for 50 points against their opponents. This dominant second-half performance completely changed the complexion of the match, turning a tight contest into a comfortable victory for Fenerbahçe.

Despite Juste Jocyte‘s 13 points, the Spanish visitors ultimately fell short, losing 87-69. They will need to show much more at home next week to reverse the trend established by Fenerbahçe in this opening encounter.

Protected home court 💛💙

With a 50-point second half 🤯, @fbkadinbasket secure the win the first game of the Semi-Final Play-In ✔️#EuroLeagueWomen pic.twitter.com/pBlBNyDWIt

— EuroLeague Women (@EuroLeagueWomen) February 18, 2026

One Step Away from Final Six Semifinals

The Turkish club, still playing without Breanna Stewart, now stands just one match away from the Final Six semifinals, unless they need to go through a decisive third match. However, the losing team will still have a second chance, facing one of the winners from the playoff quarter-finals.

Fenerbahçe‘s balanced attack and second-half dominance have put them in an excellent position heading into the return leg in Spain. With their French duo firing on all cylinders and Meesseman providing veteran leadership, they appear well-equipped to close out the series and advance to the next stage of the competition.