Anadolu Efes vs Hapoel Tel Aviv: EuroLeague in Montenegro

Hapoel Tel Aviv eyes back-to-back wins in Podgorica

Fresh off a notable EuroLeague debut-like win, Hapoel Tel Aviv travels to Podgorica to face Anadolu Efes with the aim of keeping the momentum rolling. A dominant 87-103 victory over Barcelona showcased the team’s offensive potential and defensive grit, and coach Dimitris Itoudis will be tasked with translating that performance into a second consecutive win in a tough group.

The Armenians? No—this is the Greek coach’s group leading the Turkish powerhouse, known for its Final Four pedigree and a collection of experienced scorers. The clash in Montenegro presents a chance for Hapoel to assert themselves against a top-tier adversary and keep pace in the EuroLeague standings.

Efes’ pedigree and current roster notes

Efes arrive with a storied EuroLeague résumé, including Final Four appearances and titles in recent seasons. Itoudis has a wide rotation at his disposal, and his side will look to leverage that depth even as they trim the squad to 12 players for tonight’s game. It’s a nuanced balancing act: experimenting with rotations while preserving the cohesion that has defined Efes’ approach under Itoudis.

On the injury and availability front, a few notable names affect the lineup. A pair of players from Hapoel—Yam Madar and Bruno Caboclo—missed the Barcelona game and are listed as uncertain for this contest due to ongoing recovery and back issues, respectively. Captain Bar Timor did not dress in the last match, underscoring Itoudis’ need to weigh options carefully. Madar, meanwhile, is set to join teammates in Sofia for a derby and could be an option if his recovery timeline aligns with the trip to Montenegro.

What’s new for Hapoel Tel Aviv?

Hapoel’s travel itinerary emphasized a disciplined approach: the team flew from Sofia to Montenegro on Wednesday, logged one training session before the fast, another after the fast, and wrapped up with a final video session before the game. Although the squad did not train during the fasting period, it remained focused on tactical preparation and readiness against a highly experienced opponent.

It remains a test of depth for Itoudis. With 15 players named in the roster, the coach will need to decide which 12 suit up tonight. The absence of Madar and Caboclo heightens the challenge, but the win over Barca demonstrates the squad’s potential to execute in high-stakes moments. It will be telling to see how the rotation is deployed and whether Hapoel can sustain the pace against Efes’ experienced guards and frontcourt.

Keys to the game

Pace and spacing: Efes’ ability to push the tempo and create early rhythm on offense could test Hapoel’s defense. Containing Efes’ ball movement and shooters will be crucial for a favorable result.
Depth and rotation: With potential injuries thinning the bench, Itoudis will rely on a broader group to maintain energy and matchup advantages across the 40 minutes.
Backcourt balance: Hapoel will need reliable guard play to match Efes’ playmaking and to sustain efficient offense, especially if Madar remains in the squad’s plans later in the trip.

Looking ahead

This is more than a single-game contest; it’s a measurement of where Hapoel Tel Aviv stands in a EuroLeague landscape dominated by clubs with recent Final Four appearances. If they repeat or build on the defensive intensity and efficient shooting seen against Barcelona, they can stay within reach of the top of the group. For Anadolu Efes, a controlled performance in a challenging road venue would reaffirm their status as a title-contender and could accelerate their rhythm entering a busy stretch of the schedule.

Regardless of the result, Friday’s matchup in Podgorica promises to be a competitive, high-level display of European basketball, with both teams aiming to demonstrate depth, discipline, and the ability to execute under pressure. It will also test Itoudis’ roster management and Hapoel Tel Aviv’s resolve as they push to keep the momentum alive in the EuroLeague context.