Real Madrid edge out Hapoel Tel-Aviv in a thrilling EuroLeague encounter

In a high-stakes EuroLeague showdown, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a hard-fought 86-82 win over Hapoel Tel-Aviv on April 30, 2026. The match, played at the WiZink Center in Madrid, showcased the intensity and tactical depth that defines Europe’s premier basketball competition. Despite a late surge from the Israeli side, the Spanish giants held their nerve to secure a crucial home victory in the final minutes of the game.

Match overview

The contest lived up to its billing, with both teams trading blows from the opening tip. Real Madrid, backed by their passionate home crowd, established an early rhythm, leveraging their veteran experience and precision shooting. However, Hapoel Tel-Aviv, known for their gritty defense and fast-break transitions, refused to back down, repeatedly cutting into the lead. The final scoreline of 86-82 reflected a game where every possession mattered, with Madrid’s depth ultimately proving decisive in the fourth quarter.

Key moments

• First quarter: Real Madrid jumped out to an 8-point lead behind hot shooting from beyond the arc, but Hapoel rallied to close the gap to 24-21 by the buzzer.
• Second quarter: The visitors tightened their defense, forcing Madrid into turnovers. Hapoel briefly took the lead before a Zion Stewart three-pointer restored Madrid’s advantage at halftime, 45-42.
• Third quarter: Both teams exchanged runs, with Madrid holding a slim 68-65 edge entering the final period.
• Fourth quarter: With under three minutes remaining, Hapoel tied the game at 80-80. However, Madrid’s Luka Dragic calmly sank a step-back jumper, followed by a key steal that led to a fast-break layup, sealing the win.

Tactical battle

The game highlighted contrasting styles. Real Madrid relied on their half-court offense and interior presence, while Hapoel tried to dictate the pace with aggressive press defense and transition buckets. Madrid’s ability to control the boards—outrebounding Hapoel 38-30—was a key factor. Hapoel’s perimeter shooting kept them in the game, but they were unable to generate enough quality looks inside the paint against Madrid’s size.

Standout players

Real Madrid: Luka Dragic was the star, finishing with 24 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. His clutch play in the closing minutes was the difference. Center Marcos Fernandez added a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, anchoring the defense.

Hapoel Tel-Aviv: Guard Jordan Cohen led the visitors with 22 points and 8 assists, repeatedly breaking down Madrid’s defense. Forward Amit Ben-David contributed 18 points and 9 rebounds, but foul trouble limited his minutes in the fourth quarter.

Standings and season impact

The win improved Real Madrid’s record to 18-6, solidifying their position near the top of the EuroLeague standings. For Hapoel Tel-Aviv, the loss dropped them to 12-12, leaving their playoff hopes in jeopardy. Madrid’s depth and home-court advantage continue to be their trump card as the regular season enters its final stretch, while Hapoel must regroup quickly to keep their postseason dreams alive.