Real Madrid got revenge on FC Barcelona in the Euroliga classic, winning 80-61 at the Palacio twelve days after their ACB loss. Edy Tavares and Usman Garuba led the victory with dominant play in the paint and rebounding. The whites, who allowed 105 points in the previous matchup, held their rivals to just 61.
Real Madrid's response was anticipated after their January 4 ACB loss to Barça, where they conceded 105 points. In this 2025-2026 Euroliga matchup on January 16, the whites reversed the trend with a resounding 80-61 victory. Sergio Scariolo's team, which had strung together nine straight wins before that defeat, showed solidity from the start, holding Barça to just two points in the first six minutes.
Edy Tavares was imperial in the paint, dominating rebounds alongside Usman Garuba, who brought energy and spark. Gabriel Deck shone with four three-pointers out of four attempts, while Facundo Campazzo and Mario Hezonja answered in key third-quarter moments. From the bench, players like Dario Brizuela tried to revive Xavi Pascual's Barça, but the blaugrana side showed absences and errors, particularly on the perimeter and boards.
Liga Endesa leaders and third in the Euroliga, Madrid demonstrated pride and the ability to learn from losses. Barça, in its grimmest night since Pascual's return, faltered without a hero to hold them up. This win positions Real Madrid solidly in the European competition, highlighting the strength of their talented roster.
