Real Madrid claimed a 3-2 victory against Napoli in an intense Champions League clash, thanks to an unfortunate own goal from Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret. Federico Valverde’s shot deflected off the bar and rebounded into the goal off Meret’s outstretched arm, sealing the win for Real Madrid. The victory propelled Real Madrid to the top of Group C, three points ahead of Napoli and Braga.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Valverde’s strike, dismissing the label of an own goal for Meret. Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham also scored for Real Madrid, while Leo Ostigard found the net for Napoli. Bellingham’s impressive performance stood out, with the midfielder scoring his eighth goal in nine matches for the club.
Napoli fought back with a penalty goal from Piotr Zielinski after a controversial handball call against Nacho. The match took place in a city recently hit by earthquakes, adding to the intensity on the field.
Real Madrid had the upper hand early on, but Napoli’s Ostigard opened the scoring with a powerful header. Bellingham then equalized for Real Madrid after intercepting a sloppy pass from Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo. The midfielder later showcased his skills again, securing the lead for his team.
Despite Napoli’s resilience, the introduction of Luka Modric turned the tide in Real Madrid’s favor. Though Bellingham had an opportunity to extend the lead, it was Valverde’s goal that ultimately gave Real Madrid the advantage in a tightly contested group.
