The England star scored and created, but Nico Diaz’s late goal secured another Champions League win.

Jude Bellingham was crucial again, but Real Madrid won the Champions League over Napoli with an unlikely source. Nico Paz scored his first goal for the club in the 84th minute, a long-range shot that gave his team the lead and sealed a 4-2 triumph.

Giovanni Simeone bundled the ball over the line after a strong counterattack to give Napoli the lead early. The lead was less than two minutes. After scoring twice during the weekend, Rodrygo scored the equalizer by cutting onto his right foot and sending a shot into the upper right corner.

Madrid seized the lead immediately after when Bellingham scored his 15th goal of the season with an acrobatic header from the far post. Visitors stayed in it. Frank Anguissa scored early in the second half to tie the game.

Madrid created many chances in the second half, mostly via Bellingham, and appeared more likely to win. They found the big goal late. Nico evaded a defender and shot from long range.

Though Alex Meret should have stopped the shot, it reached the net, marking a turning point in the 19-year-old substitute’s career. Joselu’s fourth, a far-post tap-in, gave the hosts a comfortable win.

GOAL rates Santiago Bernabeu Real Madrid players…

Goalie, defense

Andriy Lunin (6/10):

Was unable to stop Napoli’s goals, but his initial save was brave.

Dani Carvajal (6/10):

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tested him, but he played well and attacked.

Antonio Rudiger (7/10):

Almost likely goal at halftime was stopped by a crucial intervention. He played the rest of his defensive work well, although he was lucky not to be punished for a risky challenge on Piotr Zielinski.

David Alaba (6/10):

A lovely pass assisted Bellingham’s header. His opposite number struggled with Simeone and subsequently Victor Osimhen.

Ferland Mendy (7/10):

Covered his man well and showed more forward than in prior weeks.

Midfield

Toni Kroos (6/10):

Always steady on the ball yet vulnerable defensively.

Federico Valverde (7/10):

Deep midfielder with legs and ball control.

Dani Ceballos (6/10):

His first season start was solid. He managed to fill minutes well.

Jude Bellingham (8/10):

Buried a Ronaldo-like header at the far post. Controlled it centrally. Best player in the world now.

Attack

Brahim Diaz (6/10):

Contributed to the Madrid equalizer. He was quick to run when he didn’t have the ball. Removed after an hour for calf issues.

Rodrygo (8/10):

Made a great equaliser. Versatile counterattacker who coordinated well with Madrid’s offense. He’s in top form.

Subs, Manager

Joselu (4/10):

After being substituted, missed a sitter and wasted more chances before scoring when it didn’t matter.

Nico Paz (8/10):

What a moment! Scored the important third goal after coming on.

Nacho: N/A

No time to impact.

Lucas Vazquez: N/A

Late legs to claim victory.

Ancelotti (7/10):

Choose his strongest side, especially with injuries. He’ll be frustrated to concede twice, but Madrid played well enough to win. Group stage job done.