Pablo Laso: 'We always believe, this is part of our heart' / News - Basketnews.com

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Real Madrid (4-1) remained unbeaten at home after a nail-biting win against Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2-3).

Player of the Game EFF 15 Fabien Causeur Points 16 Accuracy 6-9 Rebounds 0 Assists 0

Pablo Laso explained at the press conference that Walter Tavares was sidelined due to paternity. Then, he warned about a possible Nigel Williams-Goss' injury, who hurt one of his fingers.

After that, Laso spoke about the game, recognizing it was as tough as expected.

"We knew it was going to be difficult. I'm so happy about this win. We have been capable of playing smart.

Our job in the first half kept us alive even though we were not good in offense. They have punished us with rhythm. But we were able to react in the second half. Our defense was good overall", he added.

The Spanish mastermind highlighted the effort and the way they always believed.

"I would like to underline our team's heart. We were struggling a bit, but we never stop trusting".

Vincent Poirier finished the game with 17 rebounds, a new single record for him and Madrid. Despite this stat, Laso said that, in his opinion, the French forward didn't play well.

Asked about Eli Ndiaye, who made his debut in the Euroleague, Laso said: "He was practicing at Valdebebas this afternoon. When we knew Tavares would not be able to play, we called for a taxi, found his clothes, and he came here.

Unexpectedly, to face Vesely. It is not easy. He has helped us a lot. I'm proud of our young players."

Meanwhile, Sasha Djordjevic firstly congratulated Real Madrid, and then he analyzed the game.

"Both teams made a great effort on the court. In the decisive plays, we did not have clear ideas to seal the game. We came to win, and we were close. I'm proud of my guys. We are a team in a building process", he said.

"I can't understand how the refs called a technical foul. When you lose by just one point, these details make the difference. We had some similar episode in Athens", he added.

Djordjevic praised Madrid's fans, who applauded him at the beginning of the game.

"I still have a relationship with this city, so for me, it has been really special. I want to thank the supporters".

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