Real Madrid suffer historic 0-3 EuroLeague start after loss to Hapoel

Real Madrid suffered an unprecedented start to their 2026-27 EuroLeague campaign after a 102:98 defeat to Hapoel Tel Aviv in Sofia, leaving the Spanish giants without a win after three rounds. The quarter scores read 29:20, 34:23, 12:32, 27:23.

The loss on 2 October 2026 follows earlier defeats to Anadolu Efes and Dubai, putting Real’s record at 0-3 — the first time the club has opened a EuroLeague season with three straight losses.

Defensive alarm in the first half

What alarmed observers most was Real’s defence in the opening 20 minutes: Hapoel registered 63 points in the first half, marking the second-worst defensive showing by Real Madrid in a EuroLeague first half. The only worse instance was in November 2017, when Baskonia scored 65 before the break.

Despite a late push in the fourth quarter, Real were unable to overturn the deficit built during the third period, which had swung 12:32 in favour of Hapoel and ultimately decided the contest.

The result raises immediate questions about adjustments and rotations for the Spanish club as they seek their first victory in the competition this season.

Photo: Real Madrid\/Fejbuk