Real Madrid maintained their undefeated streak in the Champions League as they bounced back from a deficit to secure a 3-2 victory against Napoli on Tuesday. Jude Bellingham, the midfielder for Los Blancos, demonstrated his skill yet again by scoring his eighth goal in just nine matches. Vinícius Jr. equalized the scoreline after Leo Østigård's initial goal for the home team.
Piotr ZieliÅski equalized in the second half, making it 2-2. However, Alex Meret accidentally scored an own goal due to a powerful shot by Federico Valverde, securing three points for Madrid in their visit to Naples. Manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed satisfaction with the team's complete and focused performance.
In the first half, we performed exceptionally, showcasing great teamwork and creating multiple opportunities. However, after their goal, we skillfully maneuvered through their defense and continued to generate scoring chances. Although we faced a challenging period of 10 or 15 minutes, we soon regained command of the game and ultimately scored towards the conclusion.
Following Madrid's initial chances, Napoli seized the advantage with a goal from a corner kick. Natan's header hit the crossbar, and ÃstigÃ¥rd successfully converted the rebound.
Leo ÃstigÃ¥rd celebrates Napoli's first goal of the match.
Alessandra Tarantino/AP
Madrid responded midway through the first half, VinÃcius finishing well after Bellingham had intercepted Giovanni Di Lorenzos loose pass.
The Englishman increased the score to 2-1 with an impressive run through Napolis defense, skillfully maneuvering past a defender and shooting the ball past Meret. This continued his strong start to his career at Real Madrid.
ZieliÅski leveled the score from a penalty spot after a video review determined that Nacho had illegally handled the ball during a sliding challenge. It may have been a harsh call, but Valverdes powerful strike from outside the box delivered the ultimate say for Madrid. The shot hit the crossbar and then bounced off the back of Meret's head, finding the net.
Bellingham scores Real Madrid's second goal against Napoli.
Madrid secures the top spot in Group C, surpassing Napoli and Braga by three points. In a thrilling match on Tuesday, the Portuguese team, Union Berlin, made an impressive comeback from being two goals behind to secure a 3-2 victory, courtesy of an injury-time winner by André Castro.
Ancelotti had nothing but praise for Bellingham, the new signing, after his team secured a victory.
"I am astonished by the fact that he is only 20 years old, as his demeanor and attitude make him seem much older, almost 30," Ancelotti expressed.
"He consistently maintains his focus during the game and possesses a profound understanding of his responsibilities, which is rather exceptional for someone who is only 20 years old. Additionally, he possesses an abundance of talent, physical prowess, and impressive skills. His ability to astonish both myself and others is truly remarkable."
"Madrid is set to face Osasuna in LaLiga this Saturday, while Napoli has a crucial Serie A game against Fiorentina scheduled for Sunday."