Real Madrid Takes Commanding Lead in EuroLeague Playoffs Against Hapoel Tel Aviv

Real Madrid demonstrated their championship mettle in the opening game of their EuroLeague playoff series against Hapoel Tel Aviv, securing a crucial 86-82 victory at the Movistar Arena. Despite losing star center Tavares to a knee injury just two minutes into the contest, Scariolo’s squad rallied to take a 1-0 series lead.

The early setback could have derailed Madrid’s playoff ambitions, but instead it galvanized the team. Facundo Campazzo stepped up magnificently, finishing with 21 points, 6 3-points, and an impressive 18 efficiency rating to lead five players in double-digit efficiency: Lyles (15), Okeke (14), Hezonja (12), and Len (10).

Campazzo’s 3-point masterclass propels Madrid

The Argentine guard took control from the opening quarter, connecting on 4 3-points for 13 points as Madrid built an early 27-18 advantage. Remarkably, Scariolo’s team committed zero turnovers in the first quarter, showcasing their composure under playoff pressure.

Los 6⃣ triples de @facucampazzo pic.twitter.com/Dd1wavbiv6

— Real Madrid Basket (@RMBaloncesto) April 29, 2026

Madrid’s depth proved decisive as their second unit maintained the intensity. Lyles contributed 7 points, Deck added 6, and Feliz chipped in 4, while Len provided crucial presence in the paint with 5 rebounds. A basket by Hezonja extended the lead to 20 points at 46-26 in the 17th minute, though Hapoel managed to cut the deficit to 48-33 by halftime.

Defensive resilience secures opening victory

The visitors mounted a spirited comeback attempt in the second half, with Oturu, Jones, and Micic leading the charge. Hapoel employed zone defense to disrupt Madrid’s rhythm, but the hosts remained patient and disciplined, committing only three turnovers through 30 minutes of play.

Okeke‘s outstanding work on offensive rebounds, particularly his 4 rebounds in the third quarter, helped compensate for Madrid’s decreased outside shooting accuracy. The team’s perfect 14/14 free throw shooting also proved crucial in maintaining their 70-55 lead entering the final period.

The closing minutes provided drama as Hapoel made one final push. An unsportsmanlike foul on Deck and a technical foul on Scariolo in the same play sparked a 0-7 run that brought the visitors within striking distance. However, Madrid responded through offensive rebounds and clutch contributions from Maledon, Lyles, and Campazzo‘s sixth 3-point shot, which matched his best EuroLeague mark and effectively sealed the victory at 82-64 with four minutes remaining.

Despite a late Israeli surge that made the final score 86-82, a crucial block by Len and a defensive recovery secured Madrid’s triumph and the first point of the series.