Real Madrid demonstrated they remain a force in the Champions League, overcoming Atalanta in a thrilling encounter that showcased both teams’ quality. Though questions about Kylian Mbappé’s fit in Carlo Ancelotti’s system have lingered, his electrifying opening goal silenced critics momentarily. However, his injury later in the match leaves concerns for the defending champions as they edge closer to securing an automatic knockout-stage berth.
Atalanta, unbeaten in 14 matches leading up to this clash, nearly extended their remarkable run. The Italian side’s energy and relentless approach tested Real Madrid throughout the match, earning applause from their passionate supporters despite the narrow defeat. Real, meanwhile, displayed resilience and flashes of brilliance, reminding everyone why they remain perennial contenders in this competition.
The opening moments set the tone for an eventful night. Mbappé, seeking redemption after a missed penalty against Liverpool, burst into action early but was initially thwarted by Atalanta’s goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi. Undeterred, he capitalized on his second chance minutes later, courtesy of Brahim Díaz’s precise footwork and clever pass. Mbappé’s decision to let the ball glide past Marten de Roon created the perfect angle for his thunderous strike, marking his 50th Champions League goal.
Mbappé’s confidence seemed to grow, as he nearly added a second with another blistering run. However, his promising start was cut short when he exited with a suspected muscular issue after half an hour. Ancelotti later confirmed the injury would be assessed further, though it did not appear severe. Rodrygo replaced the star forward, leaving Real to navigate the remainder of the game without their talisman.
Atalanta seized the opportunity to press Real Madrid. Their relentless efforts paid off just before halftime when Aurélien Tchouaméni fouled Sead Kolasinac, earning the home side a penalty. Charles De Ketelaere stepped up and confidently dispatched his effort past Thibaut Courtois, leveling the match and energizing the crowd.
The second half opened with Atalanta in ascendancy, their lively forward Ademola Lookman forcing a save from Courtois. But Real Madrid, true to their reputation, found a way to respond. A moment of fortune saw Éderson inadvertently play the ball into Vinícius Júnior’s path, and the forward’s sharp instincts allowed him to dispatch a precise shot into the far corner.
Vinícius continued to inspire, linking brilliantly with Jude Bellingham moments later to extend Real’s lead. The Brazilian’s exquisite 50-yard pass split the Atalanta defense, enabling Bellingham to weave inside and slot home with his left foot. The move encapsulated Real Madrid’s ability to blend technical excellence with devastating efficiency.
Atalanta refused to back down. Lookman ignited hope for the hosts with a powerful strike that beat Courtois, setting the stage for a frenetic final period. The Serie A leaders poured forward, creating several opportunities, including a close-range miss by Mateo Retegui, who volleyed over in the dying moments. An offside flag ultimately spared him from further embarrassment.
Real Madrid’s victory underscored their knack for thriving under pressure, even when faced with adversity. Vinícius and Bellingham, quiet for much of the first half, came alive when it mattered most, delivering the decisive moments that sealed the win. Atalanta’s spirited performance highlighted their growth as a team capable of challenging Europe’s elite, and their prospects of advancing to the knockout stages remain strong.
As the dust settled, there was a sense that these two teams might cross paths again, perhaps with even greater stakes on the line. For Real Madrid, this win serves as a reminder of their enduring quality, while Atalanta can take pride in a performance that pushed the reigning champions to their limits.
