Real Madrid Secures Top Spot in Champions League Group with Thrilling Victory Over Napoli
Real Madrid secured a 4-2 victory over Napoli, claiming the top spot in Group C on Wednesday. Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham each scored a goal, contributing to Real Madrid’s perfect record in this season’s Champions League.
Bellingham made history by becoming the first player to score in each of his first four Champions League appearances for Real Madrid. The England midfielder’s header in the 22nd minute, assisted by David Alaba, put the 14-time winners 2-1 ahead. Bellingham’s remarkable performance included not only scoring but also assisting Joselu’s fourth goal in added time.
The scintillating game featured a six-goal thriller, with Napoli’s Giovanni Simeone opening the scoring in the ninth minute. However, Real Madrid quickly responded, with Rodrygo leveling the score just two minutes later. Bellingham’s fifth goal in the last five matches gave Real Madrid the lead, but Napoli’s André-Frank Zambo Anguissa equalized with a powerful shot in the 47th minute.
The decisive moment came in the 84th minute when 19-year-old Nico Paz, a substitute, scored his first Champions League goal with a right-footed stunner from outside the area. Joselu sealed the victory in stoppage time, securing Real Madrid’s fifth straight win in Group C and frustrating Napoli’s bid to reach the knockout stage.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Bellingham’s spectacular performance, stating, “He comes into the box like a motorbike.” Bellingham’s adaptation to the club has been surprising, with 15 goals in his first 16 matches, including four in four Champions League games.
Despite Napoli’s early lead and a spirited performance, the visitors couldn’t overcome Real Madrid’s resilience. Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri admitted, “We played really well until we went 3-2 down.”
With the victory, Real Madrid mathematically secured the top spot in Group C, ensuring they will be among the seeded teams in the knockout-stage draw. Napoli, second in the group with seven points, needs a draw in their final game against Braga to qualify for the last 16.
The win extends Real Madrid’s Champions League unbeaten run to five games, setting the stage for an exciting journey in the knockout stage.
