Real Madrid reignited their Champions League title defence with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Serie A leaders Atalanta on Tuesday night. In a fiercely contested match in Bergamo, goals from Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham secured a crucial win for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, pushing them to nine points from six matches in the group stage.
The victory was vital for Madrid, who risked falling out of play-off contention in the revamped tournament format. With two matches remaining in their league campaign, the win places them three points away from the top eight spots that guarantee direct qualification for the last 16.
Atalanta, who have been a formidable force in the competition, suffered their first defeat of the season. Despite a strong performance, Gian Piero Gasperini’s team now sits ninth, two points behind the 15-time European champions.
Madrid took the lead late in the first half when Mbappe opened the scoring, only for Atalanta to equalize moments later through a Charles De Ketelaere penalty. Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham struck in quick succession early in the second half, putting Madrid in control. However, Atalanta refused to back down, with Ademola Lookman pulling one back in the 65th minute to set up a tense finale. In the dying moments of added time, Atalanta came agonizingly close to a dramatic draw when substitute Mateo Retegui failed to convert Ademola Lookman’s cross from mere inches out, leaving the home crowd stunned.
The win strengthens Madrid’s position as they fight to maintain their title defence. Ancelotti praised his team’s resilience, highlighting the importance of the result against a spirited Atalanta side.
With two fixtures left in the league stage, Madrid must maintain their momentum to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. Atalanta, meanwhile, will look to bounce back as they aim to keep their European ambitions alive in this highly competitive tournament.
