Real Madrid-Maccabi: Whites aiming to extend best winning run of ...

After recording a 100%-win record from four games in the space of seven days, Real Madrid now face another stern test of three clashes in six days. The busy calendar offers no respite to Chus Mateo's charges, who will be looking to extend what is their best winning run (seven wins on the bounce) of the season against Maccabi. In the EuroLeague, the Madridistas have racked up five straight victories and have a good opportunity to continue their record in this double-header at the Movistar Arena (before hosting Olympiacos on Thursday).

Every game counts in such a tight EuroLeague, where after 20 matchdays only three wins separate first from 10th, the last play-in place. Real Madrid sit seventh and now face three home games in a row (next week they take on Baskonia). A win would provide a real boost to their climb up the standings. Meanwhile, Maccabi go into the clash on the back of five consecutive defeats that sent them down to second-to-last place.

The Madridistas’ excellent form has been based on defensive play and the contribution of all the players. The energy and involvement of players like Ndiaye, Hugo, Feliz and Rathan-Mayes has been crucial to complement Hezonja, Musa, Campazzo, Tavares, Llull and company. Ibaka was instrumental in the wins against Zalgiris and La Laguna Tenerife (averaging 21 in PIR). The Whites face a Maccabi team that has changed some elements since the first meeting in Belgrade, where they narrowly prevailed (79-78). Trevion Williams has replaced Gabriel. They are the second-best team in offensive rebounds. Hoard (17.6 in PIR) is their pacesetter. He is accompanied by Sorkin, Randolph and ex-ACB players Jokubaitis and Rivero. The visitors attack better than they defend, conceding 89 points on average.

Home record against MaccabiReal Madrid have triumphed in their last 15 home games against the Israelis. This winning streak began in December 2011 and culminated in last season's 106-101 victory. In the EuroLeague, this will be the 40th clash between the two teams. Madrid boast a 25-14 record against the Israelis.