Crvena zvezda defeated Anadolu Efes Istanbul 77-72 in a closely contested EuroLeague matchup that remained undecided until the closing stages. The game was a defensive struggle for long stretches, with both teams trading blows and neither side able to build a comfortable advantage. In the end, the home team's efficiency at the free-throw line and superior three-point shooting proved decisive.
Crvena zvezda finished the game with 27 successful field goals from 70 attempts, while Anadolu Efes Istanbul converted 26 of 67. The hosts held a clear edge from beyond the arc, knocking down 8 of 28 three-point attempts compared to Efes' 6 of 25. From the free-throw line, Crvena zvezda went 15 of 23, while the visitors managed 14 of 18. These shooting splits highlight how the home side capitalized on their opportunities from deep and at the stripe, even though Efes was more accurate from the line percentage-wise.
The statistical battle was nearly even across the board, but a few key areas tilted the game. Crvena zvezda recorded 17 assists, 41 rebounds, 10 steals, and 3 blocks, committing 13 turnovers. Anadolu Efes Istanbul posted 18 assists, 43 rebounds, 7 steals, and 4 blocks, but turned the ball over 17 times. The four extra turnovers proved costly for the visitors, as Crvena zvezda converted those extra possessions into crucial points. Both teams were whistled for 23 personal fouls, a testament to the physical nature of the contest.
Rebounding was a tale of two halves of the glass. Efes dominated the offensive boards with 13 compared to Crvena zvezda's 10, and also led in total rebounds 43-41. However, the home team's defensive rebounding (31) limited second-chance opportunities when it mattered most. Crvena zvezda's 10 steals also disrupted Efes' rhythm, leading to transition chances that helped offset the visitors' advantage on the boards.
The game flow was defined by runs and counter-runs. Crvena zvezda's ability to hit timely three-pointers kept them ahead, while Efes relied on interior scoring and offensive rebounding to stay within striking distance. The 17 turnovers by Anadolu Efes Istanbul were the decisive factor, as they repeatedly halted momentum and gave Crvena zvezda extra possessions. In a game decided by five points, those additional opportunities made all the difference. This result will have implications for the league standings, as both teams jockey for position in a tightly packed EuroLeague table. For Crvena zvezda, the win secures crucial points in their push for a playoff spot, while Efes will rue their missed chances and turnovers. A Crvena zvezda vs Anadolu Efes Istanbul preview before the game had suggested a close affair, and the match lived up to that billing, with the hosts ultimately making the plays down the stretch to seal the victory.
