Real Madrid continued their flawless Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win over Juventus, as Jude Bellingham struck the decisive goal and Vinicius Jr delivered a mesmerising performance. The Englishman’s first of the season ensured Los Blancos maintained momentum ahead of El Clasico.
Bellingham delivers again as Madrid edge Juventus
Real Madrid extended their perfect start in the Champions League with a 1-0 victory over Juventus at the Santiago Bernabéu. Jude Bellingham’s poacher’s finish midway through the second half proved enough for Xabi Alonso’s side, who dominated the contest but were made to work for the win against a resolute Juve outfit.
Madrid were on the front foot from the first whistle. Kylian Mbappé twice forced saves from Wojciech Szczęsny inside 15 minutes, while Aurelien Tchouameni fired narrowly wide and Arda Güler saw a curling effort fly just past the post. Juventus, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter and nearly took the lead through Dusan Vlahović, but Thibaut Courtois was alert to make a crucial stop.
The second half followed a similar pattern — Real controlling the tempo and Juve threatening sporadically — until Vinicius Jr decided to take matters into his own hands. The Brazilian beat his marker with a trademark burst of pace and unleashed a thunderous strike that rattled the post. Bellingham, arriving with perfect timing, pounced on the rebound to slot home his first goal of the season and send the Bernabéu into raptures.
Vinicius Jr steals the show
While Bellingham scored the matchwinner, it was Vinicius Jr who lit up the night. The winger tormented Juventus’ back line from the opening minutes, constantly demanding the ball and driving at defenders. His pace, footwork, and unpredictability made him virtually unplayable — the kind of performance that will remind fans why he remains one of the most electrifying talents in world football.
Vinicius has sometimes faced criticism for inconsistency this season, but this was a reminder of his ability to decide big games on his own. His assist in all but name for Bellingham’s goal summed up his influence: explosive, fearless, and decisive.
Defensive discipline defines Madrid’s victory
At the other end, Thibaut Courtois once again showcased why he remains among the world’s elite goalkeepers. His saves from Vlahović in both halves preserved Madrid’s clean sheet, while Eder Militao produced several recovery tackles and crucial blocks to keep Juventus at bay.
Federico Valverde offered balance and control on the right flank, blending defensive solidity with sharp distribution. Alvaro Carreras provided cover to allow Vinicius the freedom to roam, while Madrid’s centre-backs were dominant in the air. The defensive structure, led by Courtois and Militao, was integral to seeing out the win.
Güler shows promise; Mbappé denied
In midfield, Arda Güler enjoyed one of his brightest nights in a Real Madrid shirt. The young Turkish playmaker was inventive and sharp, creating seven chances with his quick turns and vision. His pressing still needs polish, but his creativity brought a different dimension to Madrid’s attack.
Up front, Kylian Mbappé looked threatening but was repeatedly denied by Szczęsny. Although he failed to score, his movement stretched Juventus’ defence, creating space for Vinicius and Bellingham to exploit.
Alonso’s bold Madrid taking shape
Head coach Xabi Alonso once again demonstrated his growing tactical influence. Opting for a bold starting XI ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico, Alonso’s approach paid off as Real dominated possession and created numerous openings. The only criticism might be their lack of a second goal, but the performance was another sign that his Real Madrid are evolving into a fluid, dynamic, and fearless side.
With nine points from three games, Los Blancos sit comfortably atop their group. More importantly, they appear to be hitting form at just the right time — with Bellingham rediscovering his goalscoring touch, Vinicius in full flow, and Alonso’s philosophy taking hold.
Real Madrid march on, and the message to the rest of Europe is clear: they’re not just winning — they’re enjoying it again.
