Barça fell to a 93–86 defeat on the road against Monaco in a EuroLeague clash that started promisingly for the blaugrana but grew more difficult as the game wore on. Xavi Pascual’s side saw Monaco raise their intensity and impose their rhythm, while Barça were unable to respond.

With this loss, Barça will have to play for their qualification in the final round at the Palau against Bayern Munich, in a decisive game where a place in the play-in is not yet secured. 

Electric start

Barça began with authority, combining strong perimeter shooting with solid defence to build an early lead. They looked comfortable, controlling the tempo and creating good scoring opportunities.

This phase also saw the return of Juan Núñez after a long absence. As the quarter progressed, Monaco reacted by increasing their intensity and punishing Barça turnovers. Even so, the visitors maintained control for much of the first quarter, which they closed ahead (18–26). 

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Levelling up

In the second period, Barça’s level dropped. They struggled more in attack, with unclear possessions allowing Monaco to grow into the contest. The home side raised the tempo, capitalised on outside shooting and and gradually turned the tide. In the closing minutes before half-time, Monaco were clearly superior and had edged their way into the lead (46–44).

After the restart, Monaco looked physically stronger, while Barça struggled for attacking consistency. The blaugrana tried to respond through the shooting of Punter and Clyburn, but the hosts were more consistent. The third quarter was marked by fouls and stoppages, with Shengelia limited and Barça forced into constant adjustments. Despite moments of accuracy that kept them close, Monaco ended the period still in front (72–67).

Home win

In the final quarter, Barça attempted to fight back through individual plays and a few three-pointers, but Monaco managed the key moments better, with Mike James and Hayes leading their offence expertly. Barça competed until the end, but turnovers and physical fatigue ultimately decided the game.

It all finished 93–86 in Monaco’s favour, leaving the Catalans needing a result in the final round to keep their hopes alive.

MATCH STATS

MÒNACO, 93
BARÇA, 86

Mònaco: James (16), Strazel (14), Blossomgame (13), Diallo (3), Theis (11), Okobo (16), Hayes (13), Begarin (7).
Barça: Punter (27), Parra (2), Clyburn (13), Shengelia (6), Vesely (8), Cale (-), Norris (9), Brizuela (13), Hernangomez (8), Nuñez (-).

Periods: 18-26, 28-18 // 26-23, 21-19

Referees: Sreten Radovic, Jakub Zamojski, Anne Panther.

Força Barça