Real Madrid boosted their hopes of advancing to at least the knockout play-offs in the UEFA Champions League with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium on Tuesday night. The Spanish giants, under pressure following inconsistent performances in the group phase, showcased resilience and determination to secure a crucial win.
The match started at a frenetic pace, with both teams displaying attacking intent. Atalanta, known for their free-flowing style, almost took an early lead when Luis Muriel’s curling effort narrowly missed the target in the 8th minute. Real Madrid responded swiftly, with Jude Bellingham pulling the strings in midfield and providing a cutting edge to their attacks.
Real Madrid broke the deadlock in the 20th minute when Vinícius Júnior latched onto a through ball from Luka Modrić, dribbled past two defenders, and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner. The goal gave the visitors a boost, and they continued to press for a second.
Atalanta, however, hit back in the 33rd minute. A slick team move saw Teun Koopmeiners deliver a pinpoint cross to Ademola Lookman, who headed the ball past Thibaut Courtois to level the score. The Italian side’s equalizer spurred them on, and they piled pressure on Madrid’s defense.
Just before halftime, Real Madrid regained their lead through an unlikely source. Dani Carvajal, charging forward from right-back, unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box that flew into the top corner, leaving Atalanta goalkeeper Juan Musso rooted to the spot.
The second half was just as intense, with Atalanta pushing for another equalizer. Their efforts paid off in the 57th minute when Jérémie Boga curled in a spectacular goal after weaving through Madrid’s defense, making it 2-2. The Gewiss Stadium erupted, as the home side looked capable of completing a comeback.
However, Real Madrid showed their class and determination in the final stages. In the 72nd minute, Rodrygo, who had come on as a substitute, delivered a stunning winner. He received a pass from Bellingham, skipped past a defender, and curled the ball into the far corner, silencing the Atalanta crowd.
Atalanta tried to mount a late charge, but Real Madrid’s defense, led by Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger, held firm. Courtois made a crucial save in stoppage time to deny Marten de Roon’s header, preserving the visitors’ slim advantage.
Speaking after the match, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s fighting spirit. “This was a vital win for us. Atalanta are a strong team, and it wasn’t easy, but we showed resilience and quality when it mattered most. Now, we must build on this momentum.”
The victory leaves Real Madrid in a much stronger position in their group, with a clear path to the knockout play-offs. Atalanta, despite the loss, remain in contention and will look to bounce back in their remaining fixtures.
The thrilling contest at Gewiss Stadium highlighted the unpredictability of the UEFA Champions League, with Real Madrid reminding everyone why they are one of Europe’s most formidable teams.
