# Real Madrid basketball early season struggles

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/real-madrid-basketball-early-season-struggles
> Updated: 2026-10-02T13:34:32.000Z. Sources: 30. Developments: 2.

Real Madrid’s men’s basketball team has experienced a difficult start to its EuroLeague campaign. Following a EuroLeague Supercup victory on September 19, the team has struggled with cohesion and tactical adaptation under coach Pedro Martínez.

The team has recorded its worst start to a European campaign in its 68-year history, losing three of its last four matches. Recent defeats include losses to Dubai Basketball, Anadolu Efes, and a 102-98 loss to Hapoel Tel Aviv in Sofia. Despite comeback attempts led by players such as Théo Maledon and Edy Tavares, defensive struggles and inconsistent transition play have hindered performance.

Coach Martínez has noted that the team requires time to adapt to his system, specifically citing defensive issues and inconsistent shooting. He has called for unity and improvement as the team seeks to find its rhythm.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Real Madrid faces mixed results in basketball and football

Real Madrid faces a challenging start in EuroLeague basketball despite significant financial gains from its La Fábrica academy and a strong season for its football counterparts.

14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/real-madrid-basketball-faces-early-season-struggles

### 2026-09-30: Real Madrid suffers historic EuroLeague losing streak

Real Madrid suffers its worst-ever EuroLeague start with a third straight loss to Hapoel Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, Spar Girona moves to EuroCup Women after losing to Emlak Konut.

19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/european-womens-basketball-estepona-and-spar-girona-exit-major-competitions

---
Cite as: Real Madrid basketball early season struggles. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/real-madrid-basketball-early-season-struggles