MoraBanc Leaders Urge Calm Before Real Madrid Clash Amid Four-Game Skid

Gorka Aixàs, president of MoraBanc Andorra, and head coach Joan Plaza both urged calm ahead of Sunday's Liga ACB home game against league leaders Real Madrid, following the team's four consecutive defeats.

Aixàs spoke out yesterday to reassure fans and players, rejecting any talk of crisis and stressing unity at Pavelló Toni Martí—also known as the Bombonera. He insisted all fixtures carry equal importance, regardless of the opponent. "All matches matter. What counts is racking up wins," he said, while acknowledging Real Madrid's strength but noting the league's potential for surprises. "If we get any chance on Sunday, we must play our best. Otherwise, we'll have none."

Addressing injuries to players like McKoy and Best, Aixàs attributed recent losses to those setbacks and a tight schedule, vowing to address them without rash moves. He confirmed smooth relations with Plaza and the coaching staff, dismissing internal divisions.

In a separate preview, Plaza echoed the message of composure, pointing to the demanding calendar—including games against Hiopos Lleida and Baskonia with just 24 hours' rest—as a key factor. Currently seventh in the standings, a loss could drop the Andorrans into the relegation zone. "The calendar is what it is, and we're not making excuses," Plaza said. He questioned external expectations, stating: "Except for Lleida, I don't know which games people think we should have won."

Plaza highlighted competitive showings against top sides like Baskonia and Valencia, where better defensive rebounding might have made the difference. "It's a serious problem that affects the whole team, and I'm responsible for a lot," he admitted, while warning against inflated hopes to avoid frustration. No tactical surprises are planned: "We'll stick to our style—tough, effective, and no gifts. If you let them run and score easily, you're dead."

Both leaders reported no dressing-room tension, with Plaza predicting a quick turnaround from a couple of wins. He called on fans to rally: "We're a small country and a small team, but proud. We need people to get their hands dirty, add energy, and help. Together—fans, team, club—that's the only way." Real Madrid arrive with a 12-2 record, fresh off Euroliga victories.