On April 19, 2026, Real Madrid Baloncesto suffered a 90–95 defeat against La Laguna Tenerife at the Movistar Arena. Despite a determined late comeback attempt from Real Madrid, the visitors controlled key stretches of the game and held on in the closing minutes behind standout performances from Marcelinho Huertas and Patty Mills.
The game opened at a fast pace, with both teams trading baskets early on. Real Madrid showed efficiency from the perimeter and relied on strong interior play from Walter Tavares, but Tenerife quickly settled into rhythm offensively. Led by Huertas’ playmaking and composure, the visitors closed the opening quarter with momentum and a five-point advantage.
Tenerife continued to dictate the tempo in the second quarter, stretching their lead to double digits as Madrid struggled to slow their ball movement. Real Madrid responded through increased defensive intensity and a strong spell led by Andrés Feliz, cutting into the deficit before halftime. However, Tenerife maintained control and entered the break ahead 45–41.
The visitors carried that momentum into the second half, capitalizing on Madrid turnovers and extending their lead once again. Huertas orchestrated the offence brilliantly, while Patty Mills began to make a major impact from long range. Real Madrid eventually responded through Tavares and improved transition play, producing a 10–2 run late in the third quarter to bring the contest back within reach.
The final quarter delivered a dramatic finish. Madrid’s smaller lineup increased the intensity and sparked a comeback, reducing the deficit to a single point after an energetic stretch fuelled by Feliz, Garuba, and Procida. With the home crowd behind them, Madrid appeared close to completing the turnaround. However, crucial offensive fouls, a technical foul on the bench, and timely baskets from Mills shifted momentum back toward Tenerife.
Despite the late push from Madrid, Tenerife’s composure in the closing minutes proved decisive as Madrid fell short. Chus Mateo’s side will now look to quickly regroup and return to winning form in their next Liga Endesa fixture.
I had the chance after photographing the game to attend their press conference, which included the head coach of Real Madrid Baloncesto, Sergio Scariolo and the head coach of La Laguna Tenerife, Txus Vidorreta.
Below are some pictures I took and edited of this game.
