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Jude Bellingham was among the standout performers as Real Madrid came from behind to secure a thrilling 3-2 Champions League victory over AEK Athens, with the England midfielder earning the Man of the Match award.
According to a report by BBC Sport on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Bellingham played a key role in Madrid’s comeback, scoring an impressive equaliser and helping his side maintain their attacking threat throughout the encounter.
Real Madrid began the contest with attacking intent but were caught off guard when Aboubakary Koita gave AEK Athens the lead in the 12th minute. The goal exposed Madrid’s defensive weaknesses and forced the visitors to chase the game.
Bellingham had already attempted to respond in the 11th minute, but his powerful strike from outside the penalty area was blocked by the opposition defence.
The midfielder eventually brought Madrid back into the contest in the 32nd minute. Following an attacking move involving Marc Cucurella, he produced an excellent back-heel finish to make it 1-1, showcasing his awareness and composure inside the box.
He remained influential after the interval, using his movement and involvement in midfield to create further attacking opportunities for the Spanish giants. Bellingham also tried his luck from distance in the 69th minute, but his effort failed to find the target.
AEK Athens regained the lead in the 75th minute through Stavro Pilo, putting Real Madrid under renewed pressure. However, Kylian Mbappe restored parity just three minutes later, finishing after receiving a well-placed pass from Denzel Dumfries.
Madrid eventually completed their comeback in stoppage time when Federico Valverde found the net in the 90+2nd minute. The midfielder struck the decisive goal after being set up by Brahim Diaz, sealing all three points for the visitors.
Although Bellingham was replaced in the 86th minute, his contribution had already made a significant difference to the contest. His equalising goal and overall performance earned him the Man of the Match award as Real Madrid claimed a dramatic victory.