MERSIN (EuroLeague Women) - A new era for Nadezhda under recently installed head coach Victor Lapena is off to a positive start after a taking a narrow first-leg road win in the EuroLeague Women Qualifiers.

The Spanish playcaller is celebrating his maiden victory at the helm of the Russian club after seeing off a late fightback from Cukurova to wrap up a 58-60 triumph on the road in Turkey.

Prospering from a quick-fire opening, Nadezhda debutante Adut Bulgak caught fire early as the visitors found themselves 13-26 in front after the opening period.

They looked set to keep control having led by as many as 16 points in the contest, but left the door open for Cukurova who hauled themselves  back into contention ahead of Thursday's second-leg matchup with a late surge.

Brionna Jones starred with 13 points and 11 rebounds for Nadezhda, with Alina Iagupova posting a game-high 21 points in defeat.

Maç Skoru: 58/60 Bizi yalnız bırakmayan taraftarımıza teşekkür ediyoruz!

Full Time Score: 58/60 We are thankful to our fans for their support!#ÇBKvsNAD #EuroleagueWomen #çukurovabasketbol #hiçolurmuvazgeçmek pic.twitter.com/vCPKPdsuqi

— Çukurova Basketbol (@cukurovabasket) October 8, 2018

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