AS Monaco opened their playoff series with a heavy 91-70 loss to Olympiacos on Tuesday 28th April, in a game that exposed key areas for adjustment heading into the remainer of the matchup.
The opening quarter offered a balanced start, with both teams slow to find rhythm. Missed opportunities defined the early minutes, while Monaco struggled at times to translate communication into fluid execution. Still, they remained competitive, finishing the first quarter with a narrow 20-19 lead.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter as Olympiacos found their range. A three-pointer followed by a Monaco turnover allowed the Greek side to build a 32-25 advantage. Although Monaco briefly regained control at 36-35, the final minutes before halftime belonged to Olympiacos. Increased intensity, combined with struggles on the boards and in shot efficiency, saw Olympiacos pull away to lead 45-36 at the break.
The third quarter marked the turning point. Monaco’s offensive difficulties intensified, particularly from beyond the arc, where shots failed to fall in critical moments. Olympiacos, in contrast, executed with consistency, extending their lead to 66-51 by the end of the third.
The final quarter followed a similar pattern, with Olympiacos maintaining control and limiting responses from Monaco. The Roca Team was unable to generate a solid run, finishing the game with just 36% shooting overall and a notably low 14$ from three-point range. The final score, 91-70, reflected both Olympiacos’ efficiency and Monaco’s inability to convert opportunities.
Coming off an intense stretch including two EuroLeague play-in matches, the Coupe de France, and a Betclic Élite game in the previous week, Monaco’s performance suggested the impact of accumulated fatigue. However, beyond the physical aspect, this opening game now serves as a valuable point of reference for the team.
Understanding Olympiacos’ structure, physicality, and execution across four quarters provides Monaco with clear insight heading into Game 2 on Thursday. Adjustments in defensive rebounding will be essential to limit second-chance points, while improved shot selection and efficiency will be crucial.
Game 1 may not have delivered desired result, but within a playoff series, it offers something equally important: information. Monaco now has the opportunity to utilise this performance as a foundation to adapt, respond, and approach the next game with greater precision.
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Photo source: AS Monaco Basket