In a thrilling Champions League clash, Real Madrid left it late to secure a dramatic win against debutants Union Berlin at the Santiago Bernabeu. Jude Bellingham emerged as the hero, scoring an injury-time tap-in that sent the home crowd into raptures.
Bellingham’s strike marked his sixth goal in just six matches for Los Blancos since his high-profile transfer from England this summer. The young English midfielder has quickly become a fan favorite in the Spanish capital, and his performance in this match only solidified his growing reputation. Follow your favourite Champions League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.
Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid manager, made an intriguing tactical choice by deploying Bellingham in a more advanced number 10 role, and the decision paid off handsomely. The former Borussia Dortmund and Birmingham City star was instrumental in Real Madrid’s attacking creativity, as they dominated proceedings with 22 shots compared to Union Berlin’s meager three.
Real Madrid could have easily secured victory earlier in the match, having struck the post twice in the second half. However, Union Berlin, in their maiden Champions League appearance, put up a spirited defense that nearly earned them a memorable draw at the home of the 14-time Champions League winners.
The hosts started brightly, with Joselu narrowly missing a headed chance from Bellingham’s well-delivered cross. But the first half ended goalless, with Real Madrid failing to capitalize on their early dominance.
In the second half, Real Madrid’s intensity and attacking verve were on full display. Lucas Vazquez delivered a pinpoint cross to Rodrygo, whose acrobatic effort struck the outside of the post in the 51st minute. Nine minutes later, Union Berlin’s goalkeeper, Frederik Ronnow, pulled off a superb save to deny Joselu’s header from finding the net.
Ronnow continued to be a thorn in Real Madrid’s side, making a series of impressive saves to keep out Rodrygo and Luka Modric. Joselu also came close to breaking the deadlock with a late volley that narrowly missed the target.
However, the late drama unfolded in injury time when Union Berlin failed to deal with a short corner. Federico Valverde’s hopeful shot took a deflection and fell into the path of Jude Bellingham, who calmly rolled the ball into the net from close range.
This victory keeps Real Madrid on course in the Champions League, while Union Berlin will look to bounce back when they host Sporting Braga in their next Group C match. Real Madrid’s next challenge will be a trip to face Napoli on the same day. Get the latest updates from the Champions League only on Nextbet Sports.
