Real Madrid edge Atalanta 3-2 in thrilling Champions League clash
BERGAMO, Italy: Real Madrid secured a crucial 3-2 victory against Serie A leaders Atalanta in a pulsating Champions League encounter on Tuesday, snapping their two-game losing streak in the competition. Goals from Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr, and Jude Bellingham propelled the defending champions to an important win, handing Atalanta their first defeat in this season’s revamped Champions League.
Mbappé opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a clinical strike from inside the box, but his night ended prematurely due to an injury. Atalanta drew level just before halftime when Charles De Ketelaere converted a penalty after Aurelien Tchouameni fouled Sead Kolasinac.
Vinícius Jr restored Real Madrid’s lead in the 56th minute, capitalizing on a rebound, and Bellingham extended the advantage moments later with a swift counter-attack finish. However, Atalanta responded through Ademola Lookman, who reduced the deficit in the 65th minute.
The final stages saw Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois deliver a masterclass, making several key saves to preserve the win. The result reinforces Madrid’s quest for European glory and boosts their morale after a challenging start to the group stage.(Reuters)
