Real Madrid secured a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League group stage on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at OPAP Arena in Greece. Manager José Mourinho watched his side battle back from two separate deficits before Federico Valverde scored the decisive goal in stoppage time.
Real Madrid traveled to Athens carrying the momentum of a six-match winning streak across all competitions, HARIAN DISWAY reported. Los Blancos arrived in Greece holding a flawless record in the Champions League group stage under José Mourinho, having won all three of their opening fixtures. The Spanish giants entered the contest sitting just three points behind the La Liga summit following a victory over Barcelona in El Clásico.
AEK Athens took an early advantage when Aboubakary Koita scored in the 12th minute, according to coverage by Suha News. Jude Bellingham thought he had equalized moments later, but officials disallowed his effort before he successfully leveled the score in the 32nd minute.
The Greek side continued to press the visitors despite missing injured goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha, whose place Alberto Brignoli took in the starting lineup, as noted by HARIAN DISWAY.
The hosts stunned Madrid for a second time in the 75th minute when Stavros Pilios beat Thibaut Courtois to make it 2-1. Kylian Mbappé responded immediately for the visitors, scoring just three minutes later after connecting with a pass from Denzel Dumfries to equalize once more, as detailed by Suha News.
Federico Valverde delivered the winner in the 92nd minute with a powerful strike from roughly 25 meters out that left Brignoli with no chance. Goal.com noted that the Uruguay international needed less than 30 minutes off the bench to orchestrate the midfield and unleash the decisive rocket.
The 3-2 result leaves Real Madrid with 12 points from four matches, maintaining a perfect run in Europe alongside Paris Saint-Germain. Jose Mourinho praised Valverde, calling him an extraordinary professional and a role model for others. AEK Athens suffered a difficult finish to the night as Aboubakary Koita received a red card in the 90th minute for protesting referee decisions.
Upcoming Fixtures
Real Madrid returns to domestic action with an upcoming fixture against Valencia at Mestalla Stadium. José Mourinho confirmed that Federico Valverde is expected to feature in a right-back role for the clash, continuing a tactical shift that began during recent matches against Sevilla. AEK Athens aims to recover in their domestic campaign following consecutive losses to Panathinaikos and Manchester City.
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