Valverde blast snatches Real Madrid late win at AEK Athens
Real Madrid secured a 3-2 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League thanks to a late goal from Federico Valverde. Manager Jose Mourinho praised the team's persistence after coming from behind twice in the match.
Why it matters
The win maintains Real Madrid's perfect start in the Champions League, reinforcing their status as a top-tier European football contender.
Federico Valverde lashed home a stunning effort from distance to snatch Real Madrid a late 3-2 victory at AEK Athens on Wednesday in the Champions League and preserve their 100 per cent start.
Jose Mourinho's side twice came from behind against the Greek champions before Valverde claimed all three points for his side, level with holders Paris Saint-Germain on four wins from four league phase games.
Aboubakary Koita sent AEK ahead after 12 minutes and Jude Bellingham equalised with a sublime flick for the record 15-time winners.
Stavros Pilios sent the Greek champions ahead with 15 minutes to go but Kylian Mbappe swiftly pulled Madrid level once again, setting the stage for Valverde's late winner.
The comeback 𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 were at it again 👑⚪️ #SSFootball | #UCL https://t.co/96XxFOQpNj
Also covering this story
3 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Thunderous Valverde goal keeps Real Madrid perfect in UEFA Champions League
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