EuroLeague: Real Madrid's Home-Court Advantage at Stake Against Hapoel with Full Crowds or Closed Doors

Real Madrid has secured their place in the EuroLeague Playoffs after finishing the regular season in third position, earning home-court advantage in their series against Hapoel Tel Aviv. However, that crucial edge could be diminished by a non-sporting issue: playing with fans or behind closed doors at the Movistar Arena.

The Madrid side has turned their home court into a fortress throughout the season, posting a spectacular 18-1 record at home. Only Fenerbahçe Beko Istanbul's historic 15-0 mark in 2017 presents a similar precedent in recent dominance. Therefore, having the support of their fans in such a demanding playoff series could prove decisive.

The situation will now depend on security reports issued by the competent authorities for the games scheduled for April 29 and May 1. If the game were classified as high-risk, it could be recommended to play without spectators.

The final decision would rest with the Madrid club. Neither the competition nor the opponent would have the ability to intervene. Should the club open the doors despite a contrary recommendation, all organizational responsibility would fall on Real Madrid.

Beyond the institutional aspect, the sporting debate is clear: losing the momentum of the Movistar Arena against a competitive opponent like Hapoel Tel Aviv could level a series in which the whites start with an advantage.