Both clubs have made poor starts to the new season: Anadolu Efes lost in Barcelona (82:89), while Real Madrid were beaten in Dubai (77:78). For coaches Pablo Laso and Xavi Albert, this second-round fixture is already a chance to make amends — a second straight defeat could leave these heavyweights near the bottom of the table. Real Madrid had the better of last season’s head-to-head meetings, winning away (81:75) and at home (82:71).
Anadolu Efes
Anadolu Efes began the season with a defeat to Barcelona, conceding 89 points as their defence faltered. They bounced back against Beşiktaş in the Turkish league (95:71), but defence remains their main problem: they have conceded at least 82 points in all five of their competitive games this season. Their attack, though, has been consistent. James scored 22 points against Barcelona and was previously named MVP of the VTB United League SuperCup, which Anadolu Efes won. They also have significant absences: Georgios Papagiannis and Isaïa Cordinier will miss the game, leaving Laso with less depth in his frontcourt rotation.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid lost their EuroLeague opener in Dubai (77:78), making just six of their 18 three-point attempts. On the other hand, they had previously won the EuroLeague SuperCup, and French guard Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot has impressed from the outset: he is averaging 14.8 points across four games this season. Unlike Anadolu Efes, Real Madrid have few absences for this match — only Usman Garuba will miss out. They also beat Málaga (89:87) in their most recent league game.
Anadolu Efes vs Real Madrid Prediction
Anadolu Efes must hope home advantage makes the difference, although playing in Istanbul did not help them against Real Madrid in last season’s EuroLeague. Their defensive problems, exposed against Barcelona, could prove decisive against a more balanced Real Madrid side who narrowly lost to Dubai Basketball and had earlier beaten a strong Olympiacos team (93:89). The visitors also have the deeper bench: Cordinier and Papagiannis have yet to return for Anadolu Efes, while Real Madrid are almost at full strength. We expect a close contest, but Real Madrid’s quality and squad depth should tell.
