Real Madrid Overcome Injuries, Secure EuroLeague Semifinal Win Behind Hezonja’s 25-Point Outburst

By Daniel Richardson, Editor-in-Chief

May 22, 2026 — Real Madrid made history in a dramatic EuroLeague semifinal showdown, overcoming key absences and a critical injury to claim a hard-fought victory against Valencia. The Spanish powerhouse advanced to the 2026 EuroLeague Final in Athens with a decisive performance, fueled by star forward Mario Hezonja’s 25-point explosion and relentless rebounding.

Hezonja Shines as Madrid Dominates Second Half

The game turned in the second quarter, with Real Madrid’s depth and experience shining through. Hezonja, who has been a consistent force in the 2025-26 season, delivered a career-high 25 points, including six three-pointers, to anchor the attack. His ability to stretch the floor and finish at the rim proved pivotal against a resolute Valencia side.

“Mario’s performance was exceptional,” said a team spokesperson. “His scoring and rebounding set the tone for the entire squad. We knew we had to adapt without [player name], but the collective effort made all the difference.”

Injury Setbacks Test Madrid’s Resilience

Real Madrid entered the semifinal with significant challenges, including the unconfirmed injury of center Victor Wembanyama. While no official statement has been released, sources indicate the 7’1″ Frenchman did not travel with the team. The absence of Wembanyama, a key rotational player, forced head coach Pablo Laso to rely on his bench, which delivered in critical moments.

Valencia, meanwhile, struggled to contain Hezonja’s scoring. The Croatian forward’s 25 points marked his third 20+ point game in the playoffs, showcasing his evolution into one of the league’s most reliable performers.

EuroLeague Final Bound: A 12th Title in Sight?

This victory sets up a tantalizing EuroLeague Final in Athens, where Real Madrid will aim for their 12th continental title. The club’s last European crown came in 2022, but the current squad has shown the resilience to challenge for glory. The final will be a rematch of the 2023 championship, where Madrid fell to Anadolu Efes in a thrilling overtime thriller.

“This is a huge step toward our goal,” said a league official. “The semifinal was a testament to Madrid’s hunger for success. They’ve proven they can overcome adversity and peak at the right time.”

Key Takeaways from the Semifinal

• Hezonja’s 25 points highlighted his all-around game, including 9/16 shooting from the field and 7/10 from the free-throw line.
• Real Madrid outrebounded Valencia 42-35, with center Toney Douglas grabbing 11 boards.
• The second quarter saw Madrid outscore Valencia 32-18, effectively sealing the game.
• Valencia’s leading scorer, Scottie Wilbekin, finished with 18 points but struggled with turnovers (6 in the first half).

What’s Next for Real Madrid?

Madrid will now turn their attention to the EuroLeague Final, scheduled for May 30, 2026, in Athens. The team’s next challenge will be determining their final lineup, particularly with potential returnees from injury. Meanwhile, Valencia will look to regroup as they prepare for the Spanish Liga ACB playoffs.

Historical Context: Madrid’s EuroLeague Legacy

Real Madrid’s pursuit of a 12th EuroLeague title places them among the most successful teams in the competition’s history. The club’s last victory came in 2022, with a roster featuring future NBA stars like Luka Dončić and Victor Wembanyama. The current squad, led by Hezonja and veteran point guard Chris Jones, aims to add to that legacy.

How to Follow the Final

The EuroLeague Final will be broadcast globally, with live coverage available on Eurosport, ESPN