FC Barcelona staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Anadolu Efes 89-82 in the EuroLeague, overcoming a 15-point deficit at the Palau Blaugrana. Driven by decisive late-game plays from Kevin Punter and Justin Robinson, the Catalan club secured a hard-fought victory that marked Aleksander Sekulic’s debut on the home bench.
Palau Blaugrana Comeback
Centennial Celebrations and Roster Hurdles
The fixture carried added significance as the club celebrated the basketball section’s centennial with historical legends in attendance, though club president Joan Laporta was absent. For Sekulic, the coaching baptism arrived under difficult roster conditions. The team played without three interior players: Yoan Makoundou, Tosan Evbuomwan, and Josh Nebo.
To compensate, the coaching staff adjusted both their offensive schemes and defensive strategy, specifically aiming to neutralize Mike James and prevent a repeat of past tactical complications.
Early Anadolu Efes Dominance
Pablo Laso’s Anadolu Efes squad capitalized on Barcelona’s early rust, controlling the tempo and building a commanding 19-4 lead within the opening four minutes. The visitors utilized disciplined defense without relying heavily on personal fouls, stifling Barcelona’s initial rhythm and keeping the hosts under immense pressure.
Brizuela Sparks Second-Quarter Surge
Barcelona turned the tide in the second quarter, sparked by the energy of Darío Brizuela. The guard fueled a 29-point offensive explosion in the period, allowing the Catalan side to erase the deficit and take a narrow 45-44 lead into halftime.
Robinson Delivers Late-Game Heroics
The momentum shifted back following the intermission. Anadolu Efes adjusted its defensive alignments during the break, disrupting Barcelona’s ball movement and regaining control to lead 63-67 heading into the decisive stretch.
The tight contest remained deadlocked inside the final two minutes until Justin Robinson delivered a clutch three-pointer and a vital assist to secure the win for the hosts.
