Jude Bellingham Emerges as Real Madrid's Late Hero in Thrilling Victory

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham secured a dramatic 1-0 win over Union Berlin in their Champions League opener, while Inter salvaged a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad. Get the details on these thrilling matches

Outlook International Desk

Updated on: 21 September 2023 6:37 am

Champions League

In a night filled with thrilling Champions League action, Real Madrid provided the drama with late-game heroics and a draw against resilient opponents.

Real Madrid faced Union Berlin in their Group C opener, spoiling the Bundesliga side's Champions League debut. Despite dominating possession in the first half, Real struggled to break down Union's resolute defense, led by veteran Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci. The second half saw Real Madrid ramp up the pressure, with Rodrygo coming close to scoring on multiple occasions. However, it was midfielder Jude Bellingham who stole the spotlight, netting a rebound in the 94th minute, securing a 1-0 victory and his sixth goal in six games this season.

Meanwhile, in Group C, Napoli secured a 2-1 away win against Sporting Braga, thanks in part to a late own goal by Braga's Sikou Niakaté. Giovanni Di Lorenzo opened the scoring for Napoli in first-half stoppage time, and Braga's Bruma equalized in the 84th minute. However, Niakaté's unfortunate intervention in the closing moments handed Napoli the win.

Champions League runners-up Inter faced Real Sociedad, with the Basque team initially taking the lead in the fourth minute. Brais Méndez capitalized on a steal to give Real Sociedad the advantage. Inter struggled to find their rhythm but finally equalized when Lautaro Martínez scored in the 87th minute. In Group D, Inter and Real Madrid trail behind Red Bull Salzburg, who secured a 2-0 victory against Benfica.

Galatasaray fought back for a 2-2 draw against FC Copenhagen in Group A, with Elias Jelert receiving a red card for the visitors. Galatasaray capitalized on the numerical advantage, scoring through Sacha Boey and Tetê to level the game.

In Group B, Lens held Sevilla to a 1-1 draw, with Lucas Ocampos giving Sevilla an early lead and Angelo Fulgini equalizing for Lens in the first half. Arsenal currently leads Group B.

As the Champions League continues to deliver thrilling matches and surprising results, fans can expect more excitement in the coming fixtures.