Valverde’s late winner breaks AEK Athens hearts as Real Madrid twice come from behind

Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé and Federico Valverde scored for the visitors in a 3-2 Champions League win at AEK Athens in which the home side led twice 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% start in the group phase. José Mourinho’s side twice came from behind against the Greek champions before Valverde claimed all three points for his side. Aboubakary Koïta sent AEK ahead after 12 minutes before 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 Mbappé swiftly pulled Madrid level once again, setting the stage for Valverde’s late winner.

Madrid have now won seven straight games across all competitions. Mourinho started with Vinícius Júnior on the left flank, after he missed the team’s previous two La Liga matches through suspension. The hosts started with huge energy at the Agia Sophia Stadium and it was not overly surprising when they took an early lead. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saved well from former Los Blancos striker Luka Jovic before Koïta sent AEK