An important win for Barça against CSKA Moscow (81-73). A multi-faceted game, with both sides dominating for spells, but ultimately a win for Saras' men. Mirotic led the way for Barça with 21 points.
An even start but Barça lead at the break
A low scoring first quarter ended 13-13 with both sides very evenly matched and defences very much in control given the slow pace.
The second quarter saw Saras' men more decisive in defence, with Davies, Kuric, and Mirotic all having good spells to open up a 11 point lead at half time.
Second half show of strength from visitors before Barça comeback
CSKA took control after the restart, winning the quarter 11-33, scoring 8/10 three-pointers.
The fourth quarter saw the home side score 11 without reply to regain the lead and mount yet another comeback. With Mirotic on fire and Barça defending well, the final was score 81- 73, with Davies and Jokubaitis holding their nerve at the end.
The win takes Barça to a share of the lead with Real Madrid and AX Armani, having won eight and lost two in the EuroLeague.
Game stats:
Barça, 81
CSKA Moscow, 71
Barça: Calathes (10), Laprovittola (-), Hayes-Davis (3), Mirotic (21) y Sanli (7) – starters -, Davies (14), Martinez (-), Smits (2), Kuric (13), Jokubaitis (11).
CSKA Moscow: Iffe (4), Kurbanov (4), Shengelia (17), Shved (7) y Voigtmann (21) – starters-, Ukhov (-), Hackett (2), Antonov (-), Clyburn (9), Milutinov (1), Faried (-), Grigonis (8).
Quarter scores: 13-13 / 25-14 / 13-33 / 30-13
Referees: Robert Lottermoser, Olegs Latisevs and Saso Petek.
