MADRID (BN24) — Jude Bellingham’s second-half strike sealed a 1-0 victory for Real Madrid over Juventus on Wednesday, keeping the 15-time European champions perfect in this season’s UEFA Champions League.
Xabi Alonso’s side dominated much of the contest at the Santiago Bernabeu but failed to extend their advantage after Bellingham converted from close range to claim his first goal of the season.
Juventus, now winless in seven consecutive matches across all competitions, battled to stay in contention but could not find a way past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose late saves preserved Madrid’s lead.
Real Madrid’s disciplined performance provided a timely boost ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash with Barcelona, as the club joined four others to open the Champions League group stage with three straight victories.
Both teams began cautiously, probing for openings during a tight first half. Brahim Diaz linked up with Kylian Mbappe, whose low drive forced Michele Di Gregorio into a sharp save. The French forward later created another chance with a clever run and cut-back to Eder Militao, who fired narrowly over.
The tempo lifted after halftime. Courtois denied Dusan Vlahovic on a counterattack before Madrid struck through Bellingham in the 57th minute. Vinicius Junior, still seeking his first goal of the tournament, wriggled free in the area and curled a shot off the post, allowing the English midfielder to pounce on the rebound.
Bellingham’s finish marked his first goal since returning from summer shoulder surgery that sidelined him early in the campaign. Mbappe, who had scored in 11 straight appearances, saw his best effort saved by Di Gregorio as Madrid pressed for a second. The Juventus goalkeeper produced a remarkable double stop from Mbappe and Diaz to keep his team in contention.
Igor Tudor’s men nearly leveled late when Raul Asencio blocked Lois Openda’s effort, while Courtois turned away a long-range strike from Filip Kostic in stoppage time to ensure Madrid’s victory. Real Madrid remain among the early frontrunners in Europe’s elite competition as Juventus’ struggles continue in their opening group fixtures.
