Real Madrid Defeats AEK Athens 3-2 in Champions League Thriller

Real Madrid extended its winning streak in the UEFA Champions League with a dramatic 3-2 away victory against AEK Athens. The Spanish powerhouse had to overcome a resilient Greek side twice after falling behind, ultimately sealing the hard-fought win in stoppage time to maintain its perfect record in the league phase.

The hosts started the match with high energy, taking the lead just 12 minutes into the game when Aboubakary Koïta fired a near-post shot past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Despite dominating possession under manager José Mourinho, Real Madrid struggled initially to break down the disciplined block of the Greek hosts.

The visiting side managed to equalize shortly after the half-hour mark through Jude Bellingham, who scored with a remarkable backheel finish. However, AEK Athens responded in the second half, regaining the lead in the 75th minute when Stavros Pilios converted a low cross following a swift counter-attack.

Real Madrid responded almost immediately to the setback. Kylian Mbappé brought the score level again in the 78th minute, capitalizing on a pass from Denzel Dumfries to beat the defense. The late equalizer set the stage for a frantic conclusion to the European fixture.

With seconds remaining in regular time, substitute Federico Valverde unleashed a powerful long-range strike into the top corner from outside the box. The decisive goal secured all three points for Real Madrid, mirroring similar late-game heroics the club has shown in recent continental away matches.

The victory keeps José Mourinho's squad level on 12 points at the top of the Champions League standings alongside Paris Saint-Germain, which currently holds the lead due to goal difference. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham earned official man-of-the-match honors for his stellar performance, which included his first-half goal and a crucial role in the attacking build-up.