Valverde’s blast snatches late win for Real Madrid at AEK Athens

In a thrilling Champions League match at Agia Sophia Stadium, Real Madrid secured a 3-2 victory over AEK Athens, thanks to a late goal from Federico Valverde. Jose Mourinho's side started the game strongly, with Aboubakary Koita putting AEK ahead in the 12th minute. Jude Bellingham equalised for Real Madrid with a sublime flick, but Stavros Pilios restored the lead for AEK with 15 minutes remaining.

Kylian Mbappe levelled the score for Real Madrid in the 86th minute, setting the stage for Valverde's game-winning effort. Mourinho had previously started Vinicius Junior on the left flank after he missed the previous two matches due to suspension. The hosts dominated the game and took the lead in the first half, but Real Madrid fought back valiantly.

In the second half, Koita scored again for AEK, and Mbappe netted twice more, bringing his season tally to four goals in four Champions League matches. Valverde's late winner secured Real Madrid's perfect record in the league phase, placing them on equal points with holders Paris Saint-Germain. AEK Athens' Koita was sent off after the game for dissent.