Real Madrid broke their streak of six consecutive defeats by beating La Laguna Tenerife 83-118 in the second game of the Liga Endesa quarterfinals. After a hesitant first half, the whites improved significantly after the break and managed to tie the series (1-1). Now, everything will be decided in a third and decisive match at the Santiago Bernabéu, where the pressure shifts sides.
Tactical adjustments and improved offensive rhythm 🏀
The key to the change was in the defense after the break. The team reduced turnovers and increased speed in transition, forcing errors from the opponent. Outside shooting accuracy, with several players exceeding 40% on three-pointers, allowed them to stretch Tenerife's defense. Additionally, the bench rotation provided physical freshness at critical moments, something that had been lacking in recent games. Control of the defensive rebound was also decisive in preventing the opponent's second chances.
The whites' nap lasted only one half 😅
Real Madrid seemed to have gone to Tenerife on vacation in the first half, with a defense that left gaps and sluggish attacks. But someone must have shouted in the locker room that no, this was not a resort. From the third quarter onward, the whites put away the umbrella and towel, and played as if their lives depended on it. Or the series, which amounts to the same thing. Now they need to repeat the performance at home, but without needing halftime to remember they are there to play basketball.