UCL: Bellingham Shines Again as Real Madrid Secures 2-1 Win Against Braga

Real Madrid maintained its impeccable record in the Champions League, clinching a 2-1 victory against Braga on Tuesday, thanks to a standout performance by Jude Bellingham. This win significantly boosts their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

Bellingham continued his incredible form, scoring his 11th goal in just 12 appearances since joining Madrid. His goal contributed to Real Madrid's victory on the road, further solidifying their position at the top of Group C. With nine points from three matches, they are three points clear of Napoli, who secured a 1-0 win against Union Berlin, who are yet to claim a victory. Braga remains in third place with three points.

Should Real Madrid secure another victory over Braga at home in the next round in November, they will ensure their place in the knockout stage for the 28th consecutive time. Braga, on the other hand, has never progressed beyond the group stage. This season marks the Portuguese team's third appearance in the Champions League and their first in 11 years.

The scoring opened in the 16th minute when Rodrygo, who hadn't scored since August, netted a goal from inside the area after a skillful run by Vinícius Júnior down the left flank. Bellingham extended the lead in the 61st minute with a precise low shot into the far corner, once again benefitting from Vinícius' assist.

Spanish player Álvaro Djaló narrowed the gap for the hosts with a top-corner finish in the 63rd minute.

Vinícius stated, "It’s normal to suffer a little in away matches, but we played well and scored the goals with the chances we created. And could’ve scored even more. We have to keep this run going after having won the first three matches."

The 20-year-old Bellingham remains on an impressive scoring streak, having yet to go consecutive games without finding the net. He has notably scored in each of the first three matchdays in the Champions League for the second consecutive season, replicating his feat from his time at Borussia Dortmund during the 2022-2023 season.

Bellingham played a key role in controlling the midfield's tempo, allowing Real Madrid to establish early dominance. In the first half, Braga, who had won five consecutive matches in all competitions, failed to register a single shot on target.

While Braga improved in the second half and posed a threat to Madrid, they couldn't capitalize on a few late chances.

Both Rodrygo and Vinícius had goals disallowed for offside, with one disallowed in each half.

After Bellingham's goal, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti mentioned, "The game was under control, but after we conceded it changed the dynamics."

With this victory, Real Madrid now shifts its focus to the upcoming 'El Clasico' against Barcelona in the Spanish league. Bellingham was substituted late in the match due to apparent muscle discomfort, but Ancelotti suggested it wasn't a serious issue.

Unfortunately, Ancelotti couldn't count on goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, defender Éder Militão, and midfielder Arda Güler, who were sidelined due to injuries.

Following the match, reports indicated that a member of Braga's staff attempted to confront Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger, and others had to intervene to defuse the situation.

SportsLigue