EuroLeague – Regular Season
Hapoel Tel-Aviv 76 – 69 Real Madrid
Date: May 5, 2026
In a stunning display of defensive grit and home-court energy, Hapoel Tel-Aviv delivered one of the biggest statements of the EuroLeague season by toppling the reigning powerhouse Real Madrid 76-69. The victory, played at a packed and thunderous Menora Mivtachim Arena, not only boosted Hapoel's playoff hopes but also handed Los Blancos a rare defeat on the continental stage.
Match Overview
From the opening tip, Hapoel Tel-Aviv played with a visible edge. Despite Real Madrid's star-studded lineup and deep bench, the Israeli side controlled the tempo, forcing Madrid into uncomfortable half-court sets and contesting every shot. The first quarter ended with Hapoel leading 22-18, a margin they would never surrender. By halftime, the lead had stretched to 11 points, as Madrid struggled to find rhythm from beyond the arc, converting just 4 of 18 three-point attempts in the first two quarters.
Real Madrid made a push in the third period, cutting the deficit to five points behind aggressive drives from their guard rotation. However, Hapoel responded each time, with clutch baskets in the paint and free-throw accuracy down the stretch. In the final minutes, the hosts' defense locked in, forcing two critical turnovers and securing the upset win.
Key Performers
- Hapoel Tel-Aviv: The home side was led by their backcourt, which combined for 38 points. The team shot 47% from the field and converted 18 of 22 free throws, showcasing composure under pressure.
- Real Madrid: The visitors were paced by Walter Tavares, who posted 14 points and 12 rebounds, but poor outside shooting (31% overall) and 15 turnovers proved fatal. Facundo Campazzo added 13 points and 8 assists, but Madrid's bench contributed just 16 points.
Tactical Story
Hapoel's game plan was clear: collapse the paint on Tavares and force Madrid's guards to beat them from deep. It worked. Real Madrid, one of the league's top three-point shooting teams, finished just 8-of-26 (30.8%) from long range. On offense, Hapoel moved the ball exceptionally well, recording 22 assists on 27 made field goals, and exploited mismatches by isolating Madrid's slower defenders on the perimeter.
Season Impact
For Hapoel Tel-Aviv, this victory lifts them to a 17-12 record, solidifying their position in the playoff picture. For Real Madrid, now 20-9, the loss tightens the race for the top seed in the EuroLeague standings. With just a handful of games remaining, both teams will look to sharpen their execution ahead of the postseason.
This result also marks Hapoel's first win over Real Madrid in three seasons, a milestone that will resonate with their passionate fan base as they chase a deep playoff run.

