And Obradovic's side, just as in the German capital, got off to a good start, almost building a double digit lead early on in the first quarter.

CSKA, like in their semi-final win over Lituvos Rytas, started slowly, but began to find their way back into the game as the half went on, and they would trail by just two points. Panathinaikos, however, led 37 points to 35 into the half time break.

Both teams came out firing after the recess. Trajan Langdon netted a couple of efforts from the field to cut the deficit, as the home side looked like they might take the game by the scruff of the neck.

But just as CSKA thought they might bring it back, the defending Euroleague Champions stepped up a gear and pulled away to restore their advantage.

Antonis Fortis, who used to ply his trade with CSKA's city rivals Dynamo Moscow, stepped up with some important baskets, to give his side a six point lead going into the final ten minutes.

Nikola Petkovich was a particular thorn in the Armymen's side, as the Montenegrin would weigh in with a game high of 22 points.

Both sides may only be a week or so into their pre-season sessions, but all-in-all it was Panathinaikos who seemed more prepared, and they had few problems holding off the home team, as they won with a satisfying 78 points to 72 win, which has given the Greeks a moral boost to their new campaign.

CSKA will continue to try and get up to speed ahead of the new season, as they have another couple of weeks before they play their first competitive game. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos already look like they'll take some beating to stop them from retaining their Euroleague crown.