By Olaitan Ibrahim
Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman inspired Atalanta’s spirited comeback in an electrifying Champions League encounter at Gewiss Stadium on Tuesday night.
Despite early dominance by Real Madrid, with goals from Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham, Atalanta responded valiantly.
Charles De Ketelaere’s penalty and Lookman’s second-half strike kept the contest alive, reducing the deficit to 3-2.
As per a source, Real Madrid displayed their attacking brilliance, edging Atalanta 3-2 in a pulsating Champions League Group Stage clash.
Mbappé opened the scoring early before Vinícius and Bellingham added goals in quick succession.
Atalanta fought back through Ketelaere’s penalty and Lookman’s strike, making for a nervy finish.
Real Madrid’s star-studded lineup delivered a thrilling performance to reignite their faltering Champions League campaign on Tuesday, securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Serie A leaders Atalanta.
Mbappé injury scare, 50th UCL goal
However, Madrid had to survive a late scare when Mateo Retegui missed a golden opportunity to equalize in stoppage time.
The victory, only Madrid’s third in the competition’s revamped league phase, leaves the 15-time champions in 18th place and facing an unseeded playoff position.
Kylian Mbappé made headlines early, scoring his 50th Champions League goal in stunning fashion.
The French forward expertly controlled a pass from Brahim Díaz with his left foot, darted past a defender, and fired a precise right-footed shot into the far corner to give Madrid a 1-0 lead in the 10th minute.
At 25 years and 356 days, Mbappé became the second-youngest player to reach the 50-goal milestone, trailing only Lionel Messi, who achieved the feat at 24 years and 284 days in 2012.
Mbappé reached the mark in 79 matches, making him the fourth fastest behind Ruud van Nistelrooy (62 games), Messi (66), and Robert Lewandowski (77).
Despite his milestone, Mbappé’s night was cut short when he exited late in the first half with a suspected leg injury. He was replaced by Rodrygo as Madrid held on to claim a crucial win.