Côte d’IvoireEuroLeague: Matt Costello’s Valencia Basket Stuns Panathinaikos in Game 5 to Reach Historic Final Four
Valencia Basket produced one of the greatest nights in club history by defeating Panathinaikos in the decisive EuroLeague playoff Game 5. In front of a packed and electric Roig Arena crowd, the Spanish side secured an emphatic 81-64 victory to book a historic place in the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four. The qualification carries even greater significance considering Valencia had lost the first two games of the series at home before mounting a dramatic comeback with back-to-back road wins in Greece to level the series at 2-2. Under immense pressure in the deciding game, Pedro Martínez’s team delivered a complete performance built on defensive intensity, fast-paced execution, and composure in key moments. Ivorian international Matt Costello played an important role in the historic win. The Valencia big man made an immediate impact early in the game by knocking down a crucial three-pointer in the opening quarter to help establish momentum for his side. In just 15 minutes on the floor, Costello finished with 3 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 steal, while providing strong defensive presence throughout the contest. His rebounding proved especially valuable, as he grabbed four defensive boards that helped prevent Panathinaikos from generating second-chance opportunities during critical stretches of the game. Beyond the statistics, Costello also demonstrated leadership and team spirit after the win by praising teammate Brancou Badio, who earned MVP honors with a game-high 20 points. The victory marks a major milestone for Valencia Basket, who will now compete in the first EuroLeague Final Four in club history. For Matt Costello, already enjoying an impressive European campaign, the performance further highlights his importance within Valencia’s system and continues to elevate Ivorian basketball on the international stage. Thanks to this qualification, Valencia will now face Real Madrid Baloncesto in a blockbuster all-Spanish semifinal at the EuroLeague Final Four in Athens, setting up a high-intensity showdown between two of the country’s basketball powerhouses.
