The encounter at the Agia Sophia stadium proved to be a stern test for Jose Mourinho’s side, who were forced to recover from a deficit on two separate occasions. While the visitors ultimately secured all three points, the hosts displayed significant intensity throughout, leaving the outcome in doubt until the final moments of stoppage time.
A Resilient Response to AEK Pressure
AEK Athens signaled their intent early, taking the lead in the 12th minute through Aboubakary Koita. The winger cut inside Marc Cucurella before beating Thibaut Courtois at the near post, capping a period of sustained pressure from the Greek champions. Although Courtois had previously denied former Madrid striker Luka Jovic, the hosts’ aggressive approach was rewarded with the opening goal.
Real Madrid gradually asserted control as the first half progressed, with
Late Drama Seals Victory
The second half followed a similar pattern of intensity, with AEK reclaiming the lead in the 75th minute. Koita turned provider, setting up Stavros Pilios, who slotted the ball through Courtois’s legs to put the hosts back in front. However, Madrid’s response was immediate; Bellingham combined with Denzel Dumfries, whose delivery allowed Kylian Mbappe to equalize from close range.
The goal marked Mbappe’s fourth in as many Champions League appearances this season. As the match entered the final stages, both sides pushed for a winner. AEK goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli produced a vital save to deny Mbappe, tipping a shot onto the crossbar, but he could not stop Valverde’s powerful effort in the dying minutes. Following the final whistle, Koita was dismissed for dissent, capping a chaotic conclusion to a match that extended Real Madrid’s winning streak to seven games across all competitions.
