Estudiantes coach Pedro Martinez admits JDA Dijon's tactics during Tuesday night's exciting EuroCup encounter made it difficult for his side to build up any sort of momentum.

Estu eventually won the game 80-75, but they almost threw away victory after French visitors Dijon staged a magnificent late recovery.

"It was a very competitive game. Dijon played a great game, breaking our rhythm with their zonal defense and with long possessions in attack," said Martinez.

Both teams went into the game in Madrid with victories in their opening Group A outings, and the two rivals matched each other stride for stride in the first half, which finished with Estu holding a narrow 43-42 lead.

Hosts Estu looked to have taken control of the match in the third period though as they went on a 20-6 run to establish a 63-48 advantage.

But Dijon fought back superbly to take a 70-69 lead, before Estu managed to awake from their slumber to sneak a thrilling victory.

Francisco Mendiburu Urgell made the crucial play for his side, successful downing a three-pointer with 29 seconds to go that put Estu ahead 76-74 - an advantage they did not relinquish.

"In the first half, we have been ok, but we were unable to play with comfort or to take control of the game," Martinez added.

"In the second half we have managed to react to their game and get on top, but in the last quarter, the rotations have not worked well, and we have had to recover and thanks to two key actions we have been able to get ahead and win."