Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Real Madrid (Euroleague): odds and bets 05.05.2026

The third game of the series comes with Real Madrid leading 2-0 and with a clear chance to secure their place in the Final Four. The match takes place on Tuesday 5 May on a ‘borrowed’ court in Botevgrad (Bulgaria), an unusual setting that often levels the playing field down to the finer details: outside shooting, turnovers and emotional control.

To me, this clash feels more like a business-as-usual fixture than a showcase. Madrid, with no need to run themselves ragged, will look to dictate play from defence and the rebound to stifle a Hapoel side that, playing at home (albeit on neutral ground), should step up their intensity a notch. The key is whether Hapoel can drag Madrid into a back-and-forth battle of short runs and possessions; if not, the favourites will play it safe and seal the deal without drama.

Hapoel Tel Aviv update

Hapoel must win: at 0-2, there is no margin for error and the approach should be aggressive from the tip-off, closing down the lines and looking to set the pace to avoid playing a controlled game. The home advantage in Bulgaria is unusual, but at least it changes the atmosphere compared to Madrid and that could help them get into the game.

Real Madrid breaking news

Madrid arrive with the tie well in the bag and focused on keeping things simple. The big news is Tavares’ absence, which changes the game plan: less dominance in the air, a greater need to secure the rebound as a unit and to be solid in rotations. Even so, the team are coming off a very convincing second leg and, with a 2-0 lead, can afford to play patiently.

Summary of the key factors in this match

• State of the series: 2-0 and ‘match point’ for Madrid; Hapoel, it’s do or die.
• Venue: away in Bulgaria, a different and more unpredictable atmosphere (less routine).
• Paint and rebounding: without Madrid’s main centre, control of the basket is shared and collective rebounding becomes crucial.
• Pace: Hapoel will want to speed things up; Madrid, to slow the game down and punish them in the half-court.
• Turnovers/runs: if Hapoel turns the game into a back-and-forth affair, they stand a real chance.