Real Madrid concluded 2025 on a high note, securing a vibrant 91-82 victory over Unicaja, marking their tenth consecutive win in the Liga Endesa. The triumph not only extends their impressive record to eleven wins in twelve league matches but also preserves their unbeaten run at the Movistar Arena throughout the calendar year.
The match began with Real Madrid showcasing their intent, driven by a dynamic performance from Mario Hezonja. However, Unicaja quickly countered, capitalizing on Madrid’s defensive lapses. The first quarter saw the visitors take control, ending with a score of 30-27 in their favor, much to the dismay of the home crowd. As the second quarter unfolded, Unicaja maintained their momentum, widening the gap and forcing coach Sergio Scariolo into action as his team struggled to find rhythm. By halftime, Madrid trailed 54-46, leaving fans anxious for a turnaround.
A Second Half Resurgence
Upon returning from the break, Real Madrid shifted gears significantly. Despite Unicaja initially extending their lead to 60-46, Scariolo’s adjustments began to pay off. Alberto Abalde emerged as a pivotal figure, contributing both defensively and offensively. A crucial three-pointer from Hezonja sparked a remarkable 10-0 run that shifted the game’s momentum entirely. The atmosphere in the Movistar Arena electrified as Madrid fought back to reclaim the lead by the end of the third quarter with a score of 71-66.
Decisive Performances in the Final Quarter
The final quarter saw Usman Garuba stepping up with a stellar performance, scoring 13 points and securing vital rebounds. Walter Tavares also played a crucial role inside, supported by Facundo Campazzo, as they sealed the victory against an increasingly demoralized Unicaja side. Despite a rocky start to the match, Real Madrid finished strong, demonstrating resilience and character that will be essential as they head into upcoming league and EuroLeague fixtures.
With this victory, Real Madrid maintains its position at the top of Liga Endesa standings. Hezonja and Théo Maledon were standout players for Madrid, contributing 19 and 15 points respectively as they played crucial roles in the comeback effort. Over the last sixteen minutes of play, Los Blancos outscored their opponents 43-20, further illustrating their ability to rally under pressure. As they prepare for their next challenges, one question remains: can they sustain this intensity and defensive vigilance in their upcoming matches?
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