It was time to attend a basketball match for the first time as an editor. Real Madrid Basketball defeated Dubai Basketball 107–93 on matchday 10 of the EuroLeague. In a spectacular encounter at the Movistar Arena, Scariolo’s side produced an impressive second-half comeback to secure their eleventh European victory of the season. Dubai remain on nine wins in the EuroLeague.
Real Madrid entered the game with just one victory more than their opponents. The hosts were looking to bounce back after their narrow loss against AS Monaco (100–95). Dubai, meanwhile, had secured a win just before Christmas against Milano (99–92) and hoped to draw level with the Madridistas in the Spanish capital.
The home team started strongly, with Mario Hezonja knocking down a quick three-pointer. However, Dubai grew into the game and even took the lead with three minutes remaining in the opening quarter. A strong finish from Scariolo’s men allowed Real Madrid to edge ahead at the end of the first quarter: 27–24. With two minutes left, the fans rose to applaud Sergio Llull as he entered the court for his 1,200th appearance in the white shirt.
After the short break, Dubai gained momentum. With a dominant defensive display and efficient offense, Justin Anderson and Dāvis Bertāns both hitting three-pointers, they opened the second quarter with a 0–10 run. Real Madrid continued to fight but struggled to apply pressure to Jurica Golemac’s side. Frustration grew in the stands as several controversial refereeing decisions went against the hosts. A surprising halftime score appeared on the scoreboard, with Dubai leading 44–58.
Madrid began the second half with renewed energy, fueled by an increasingly intense atmosphere in the arena. Trey Lyles and Facundo Campazzo stepped up, quickly sparking an 11–0 run. The game swung back and forth, and Walter Tavares leveled the score six minutes into the third quarter. Dubai refused to surrender and carried a one-point lead into the final period.
In the last quarter, Real Madrid took full control of the game. After some excellent team play, the home side passed the 100-point mark. Dubai attempted to stop the remontada but could not keep pace. The Madridistas’ defense stood out, highlighted by key blocks from Usman Garuba and Tavares. The fans at the Movistar Arena celebrated as the points stayed in Madrid: 107–93.
It was a perfect night for Real Madrid, who claimed their first victory of 2026. With their eleventh EuroLeague win, they now turn their attention to Sunday’s clash against Barcelona Basketball at the Movistar Arena. Dubai remain on nine wins in the competition and will look to redeem themselves in Sunday’s away game against Split.
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