By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
At the bottom end of preparations for the 2024 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four, Real Madrid is focused on overcoming the challenge presented by Olympiacos in the Semifinals, before potentially looking into the championship game.
“We understand the difficulties of winning the EuroLeague. But we have our chances, the same with the other three participants,” underlined head coach Chus Mateo on Tuesday, “We are not thinking beyond the Semifinal, which creates the opportunity to fight for a title. We will do everything possible to defeat Olympiacos. We want to write another nice page in the history of the club.”
Heading to Berlin, the reigning EuroLeague champions are seeking a 12th title in the top-tier club continental competition of Europe. Sergio Llull has been part of three championship runs.
“Besides the offensive talent, they are a very tough team overall. They put pressure on the defense of the opponents with many traps,” the experienced sharpshooter described the rematch of last season’s championship game against the Reds, “We must be effective against them to win.”
“Bartzokas is the soul of the team and an absolute leader,” added Mateo referring to the expected defensive approach of the Greek club to the Semifinals, masterminded by experienced play-caller Giorgos Bartzokas.
“Every team wants to beat the champion”
On the way to the last Final Four of his career, Rudy Fernandez is seeking a back-to-back EuroLeague championship to add on tremendous success over the years with Los Blancos.
“Everyone wants to beat the team with the most championships and we are Real Madrid. Every team wants to beat the champion. Retaining the championship would be a historic achievement. That responsibility makes us stronger and more excited,” he noted, “Motivation comes from the importance of what is at stake.”
The clash versus Olympiacos in Uber Arena is set for Friday. The championship and third-place games complete the 2023-24 EuroLeague schedule on Sunday.