Jude Bellingham maintained his outstanding form, netting for the fourth straight game as Real Madrid narrowly defeated Atalanta 3-2 in a vital Champions League clash on Tuesday night.
Real Madrid came into the match under significant pressure, needing a victory to climb the group standings and avoid the risk of early elimination from European competition. Goals by Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Bellingham secured a hard-earned triumph for Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
Mbappé found the net in the 10th minute with a sharp finish following a clever run behind Atalanta’s defense. However, his night ended prematurely as he was substituted just 26 minutes in due to a suspected thigh injury. Initial reports indicate he will undergo tests to assess the extent of the issue.
Atalanta capitalized on Madrid’s disruption, equalizing on the stroke of halftime through Charles De Ketelaere. The goal provided the Italian side with momentum heading into the break, leaving Ancelotti with tactical adjustments to consider for the second half.
Jude Bellingham extended his goalscoring form to four matches in a row on Tuesday night
The Real Madrid star scored during their 3-2 Champions League win over Atalanta
Afterwards, Bellingham shared a huge with pundit Micah Richards before an interview
Veteran manager Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical adjustments inspired Real Madrid to clinch a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Atalanta in the Champions League, with Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. scoring decisive second-half goals.
Bellingham’s strike was particularly memorable, showcasing his flair and composure as he dropped a shoulder to send an Atalanta defender off balance before cutting inside and unleashing a powerful shot with his left foot. This goal marked his fourth in a row across all competitions and added to an impressive run of form that recently saw him net in five consecutive La Liga matches.
Despite Madrid’s clinical finishing, the match remained tense. Ademola Lookman reduced the deficit for Atalanta in the 65th minute, setting up a nervy final stretch. However, Real Madrid’s defense held firm, securing three crucial points and improving their Champions League group standing.
Post-match, Bellingham joined CBS Sports for an interview with Micah Richards, who couldn’t resist sharing a celebratory hug with the rising star. Reflecting on the game and his form, Bellingham praised Atalanta’s quality and acknowledged the challenges they posed.
“[It was] difficult. They played really well. They have amazing weapons and it’s a difficult atmosphere to play in. But it’s important that we got the job done as we needed those points,” Bellingham said.
The 20-year-old midfielder emphasized Madrid’s efficiency:
“I think we were clinical in the end. We took our chances that came to us. They probably had most of the ball but in areas that were comfortable for us. But it was such a difficult game and it makes the win even better.”
Real Madrid now look ahead with renewed confidence as they aim to solidify their campaign in Europe and beyond.
Bellingham beamed with a smile before discussing the match and his season thus far
After a slow start to the campaign, Bellingham has been on fire in-front of goal for Madrid
He then addressed his goal, saying: ‘I didn’t know where the ball was going! I had to duck and I was waiting for it to hit my back and for everyone to start booing me.
‘But luckily I managed to get one-vs-one in the box and I swung anything at it and it went in!’
Bellingham then addressed Yeah, even before I was scoring goals, it was frustrating for me because I felt I was playing well.
‘But because of the expectations I set last season, I’m always wanting to affect the game with goals and assists as well. If I can score goals and directly influence the game, then it makes me a lot more valuable to the team and that’s all I want to be. Hopefully I’ve got the sniff back for it!’