Chus Mateo: "We played a great second half"

Chus Mateo and Alberto Abalde analysed the Real Madrid Euroleague game 27 win over Barcelona. The coach said after the game at the Movistar Arena: "In the first half we were a bit sluggish. In the second half we loosened up and there were moments of good offensive play, but we also defended well, where we were able to run, recover the ball and we found some open shots that helped to open up a gap."

"We know what a good team Barcelona are and that they would come back. They struck early but I'm delighted because we've come away with a very important result. There are seven games left in the regular season and we can be optimistic about our remaining games against opponents who are also fighting to get into the playoffs."

Tavares
"We played more on the inside with him on court, but also with Ibaka and Bruno Fernando. We understood how to play against the change and we knew how to use that advantage. I have three fives and Garuba gives me another one. We're capable of playing with energy at the low post. I think we played very well in the second half and I'm thrilled with another win in the Euroleague, which is not easy at all."

Abalde: ‘Every game is a final now’
"The main thing was to get the win, that was the important thing. The Euroleague is very even and all the teams are going to have to sprint to the finish line to get into the playoffs. Today was a Clásico, regardless of the standings and both teams fought hard. With this victory we're level with them and there are seven games left. Every game is a final from now on."

"I'm here to help the team in any way I can. When you also shine in attack, things work out and you help the team, it's great fun, but the other side of the coin is key and I always try to stay focused on that."