With just two rounds remaining in the Eurocup group stage, Buducnost Voli’s basketball team is in a position to control their own destiny. Currently situated in the playoff zone with eight wins and an equal number of losses, they could make significant strides toward the playoffs in their upcoming match.

The “Blues” are set to host Juventud in the 19th round of the Eurocup on Wednesday (17) at “Morača.” This highly anticipated match is an opportunity for Andrej Žakelj’s squad to maintain their impressive form and inch closer to the playoffs.

Since their defeat against Gran Canaria on December 11, the Montenegrin champions have been on fire, winning 11 of the last 12 games. Some victories have been as dominant as their wins against Trento, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Ulm in the Eurocup, as well as FMP in the AdmiralBet ABA League. Notably, they also triumphed over Partizan in the “Belgrade Arena,” showcasing the character and quality of this Buducnost team against any opponent.

As they prepare for their next challenge, Buducnost is keenly watching tonight’s (20) game in Italy, where Trento faces Wolves. A win for Trento combined with a Buducnost victory over Juventud would put the “Blues” in a strong position heading into the final round in Lithuania, armed with an extra win and a 27-point advantage from their previous encounter when they defeated Wolves 104:77. However, if both Wolves and Buducnost win, the final round will be decisive, and if Juventud pulls off an upset, the outcome could be uncertain for the “Blues.”

Buducnost aims to secure their sixth-place position in the group while looking to climb higher in the standings. Ulm and Besiktas currently have one more victory than Buducnost, who holds a better head-to-head record against the German team but not the Turkish squad. Ulm will face Bahçeşehir today (17), with Besiktas taking on Gran Canaria tomorrow (21).

The team’s focus must remain solely on the match against the Spanish squad, preparing for a grueling 40 minutes in “Morača.”

“This is a crucial match for us. We understand its significance. Juventud is a seasoned team with skilled players. They recently managed to surprise Gran Canaria on the road. We expect it to be a challenging encounter,” noted Buducnost coach Andrej Žakelj during the match preview.

Recently, Juventud has lost all chances of proceeding, despite showcasing some solid performances earlier in the season.

“They feature a strong playmaker whom we need to neutralize, alongside tall players and reliable shooters. They are a formidable side. Our primary focus is ensuring our energy and concentration are on point. If we achieve that, the tactics will be effective,” Žakelj affirmed.

Žakelj is hopeful for a full house at “Morača.”

“I expect to see great support from our fans. Together, we hope to celebrate a victory,” the Slovenian coach stated.

Alen Omić stood out last weekend, becoming the top rebounder in the AdmiralBet ABA League and also holding the same title in the Eurocup. The center spent a portion of his career with Juventud.

“It’s an incredible feeling. I’ve been involved in both leagues for many years, and I’m thrilled to have reached these milestones. I always aimed to contribute my utmost to helping my team control possession. Clearly, my efforts have yielded results. Now, let’s push for new records and continue striving for victories,” Omić expressed.

Juventud enters this match without any pressure.

“This is a high-quality team with experienced players coming to Podgorica with little pressure based on their past results. This game is vital for us; we are in good form and optimistic about winning,” Omić added.

Omić also encourages fans to attend the match.

“I urge all fans to come out in large numbers and support us as we aim for another victory. We find ourselves in a decent position in the Eurocup, with our advancement in our own hands, and room to improve our standing if the chance arises. We need everyone present at Morača on Wednesday,” the “Blues” center urged.

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