The Barça basketball team went down to their fourth defeat in a row in the Euroleague, losing 80-75 against Israeli side Hapoel behind closed doors at the Palau Blaugrana. Xavi Pascual's team began the game in fine form, taking a first quarter advantage but a poor second period put them on the back foot and the visitors were able to retain their lead to the end. 

Dominant start 

The first quarter saw the blaugranes start well only for Hapoel to fight back in the opening minutes. As the period went on Xavi Pascual's side opened up a lead, ending at 26-19 ahead. 

The second quarter saw the game take a decisive turn. Barça went four minutes without scoring as Hapoel surged ahead at 36-25. Poor shot selection and turnovers cost the blaugranes before half time and the Israelis went in at the break with a 46-40 lead. 

No way back 

Having to come from behind the blaugranes tried to force the pace but Hapoel were equal to the task. Nevertheless, Barça's intensity in defence allowed them a chance going into the final quarter just five points down at 66-61. 

The fourth period saw both sides struggle on offense as Barça's attempt at a comeback faltered. Hapoel kept their nerve to retain their advantage and keep the home side at bay to take a 80-75 win that leaves the blaugranes with work still to do in the Euroleague to make the play offs. 

MATCH STATS

BARÇA, 75
HAPOEL IBI TEL AVIV, 80

Barça: Satoransky (11), Punter (17), Clyburn (15), Norris (10), Vesely (5) - starting five - J. Marcos (3), M. Cale (5), Brizuela (5), Hernangomez (4), Fall (-), Keita (-), Parra (-).

Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv: Micic (6), Bryant (21), Malcolm (3), Wainright (-), Oturu (22) - starting five - Jones (4), Blakeney (8), Edwards (5), Randolph (4), Odiase (7).

Quarters: 26-19, 14-27 // 21-20, 14-14

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