Athens, November 4 (V7N)- Real Madrid maintained their perfect start to the UEFA Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over AEK Athens, secured by Federico Valverde’s stunning stoppage-time goal at the Allwyn Arena on Wednesday.
The 15-time European champions came from behind twice, with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé also finding the net before Valverde struck in the 92nd minute to complete the comeback.
AEK took the lead in the 12th minute when Aboubakary Koïta scored, putting the hosts ahead and forcing Real Madrid to chase the game.
Bellingham brought the visitors level in the 32nd minute, finishing a move created by Marc Cucurella. The goal continued the English midfielder’s record of scoring in seven consecutive Champions League seasons.
The sides went into half-time level at 1-1, but AEK regained the advantage in the 75th minute. Stavros Pilios scored from close range after a quick attacking move involving Koïta.
Real responded almost immediately. Three minutes later, Mbappé tapped in from close range after Denzel Dumfries delivered the ball across the goalmouth, restoring parity at 2-2.
With the match heading towards a draw, Valverde produced the decisive moment in the 92nd minute. The Uruguayan midfielder fired a powerful shot from outside the penalty area, beating goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli and giving Real Madrid a 3-2 lead.
Tensions rose after the final whistle, with Koïta shown a red card.
The victory preserved Real Madrid’s 100 per cent record in the Champions League league phase, giving them four wins from four matches and 12 points.
END/SMA/AJ
