Anadolu Efes vs Virtus: Analysis and Prediction – Anadolu Efes will play at home against Virtus in the EuroLeague Round 21.
Anadolu Efes vs Virtus Odds
Anadolu Efes Team News
Anadolu Efes suffered a defeat on Tuesday in their road game against Panathinaikos, marking their seventh consecutive loss in the EuroLeague, bringing their record to 7-13 in the competition. The ongoing series of losses has raised questions about the position of the Turkish coach Erdem Can, as another failure could potentially signal the end of his tenure.
Despite a strong performance in Madrid, expectations for a similar showing from Anadolu Efes in Athens against Panathinaikos were not met. They found themselves in a deficit from the start and hardly posed a threat to the “Greens” throughout the game. Shane Larkin only became involved in the second half, and such a performance is insufficient for success on the road. Although the return of some injured players has undoubtedly increased their depth, it has not translated into improved results. Daniel Oturu played only six minutes in Athens, and a much larger contribution from him can be expected here following his impressive display in the domestic league the previous weekend.
It would be a significant surprise if Anadolu Efes secures a spot in the EuroLeague playoffs this season. However, that is currently a lesser concern for coach Can. A potential loss in this match would likely lead to his departure, so he will undoubtedly strive to motivate the team to the fullest.
Virtus Team News
Virtus suffered a defeat on Wednesday against Maccabi Tel Aviv losing by 95:78. They were completely outplayed in the second half, bringing their record to 14-6. This record is still considerably better than anyone predicted at the beginning of the season. The task now is to stay within the top 4 and secure home-court advantage in the quarterfinals.
Fatigue could be a significant problem for this team in the remainder of the season. Their starting lineup has an average age of over 32 years, and it is challenging to imagine them maintaining peak performance at this pace consistently. They recently signed Ante Zizic and Rihards Lomazs, bringing some freshness to the team. However, to stay at this level and secure home-court advantage in the playoffs, it is essential for Toko Shengelia, Marco Belinelli and Bryant Dunston to continue with their great performances, along with maintaining good three-point shooting percentages.
The key for Virtus in this match is to establish control over the pace. Anadolu Efes will seek to run and play in transition, which does not favor the visitors from Bologna. Virtus will aim to slow down the game, finding their chance for another victory in the EuroLeague.
Every day, “Basketball Sphere” provides all its readers with the best predictions for today’s games.
If you are reading our analysis for the first time, then it is important to mention that every day we also offer to our readers a “Acca of the Day” completely free.
Anadolu Efes vs Virtus H2H
Virtus won against Anadolu Efes by 93:81 earlier in the season. Both encounters last season went in favor of the Istanbul-based team.
Absences and Injuries
Will Clyburn and Erkan Yilmaz will not play for Anadolu Efes due to injuries, while Tyrique Jones is doubtful with a shoulder issue. Ognjen Dobric is sidelined for Virtus, and Jordan Mickey is questionable.
Anadolu Efes vs Virtus Prediction
It is crucial that Anadolu Efes had an extra day for rest and preparation. Virtus is an aging team, and extensive travel without sufficient recovery time will pose a challenge for them as the season progresses. Anadolu Efes has shown resilience to save their coach, and if Larkin and his teammates want Erdem Can to remain at the helm of the two-time European champions, they will need to be at their best in this match. And that level of performance is sufficient to overcome Virtus.
Tip-off Time: Friday, 12.01.2024, 18:30 CET
Prediction: Anadolu Efes to win
Odds: 1.72
Sportsbook: 22Bet
*Odds are active at the time the article is published
We found the best odds for this game at the popular 22Bet sportsbook. You will get an attractive Welcome Bonus for all newly registered customers if you register today.