Sports

Real Madrid Edge AEK Athens 3-2 in Thrilling Encounter

By Managing Madrid

In a tightly contested match, Real Madrid secured a 3-2 victory over AEK Athens. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois earned an 8 rating, making three saves, two of which were crucial to keep the Spanish side in the game. Denzel Dumfries received a 5.5 rating, with defensive lapses, especially during AEK’s second goal, offset by his assist and offensive pressure. Éder Militão was rated 6, noting several defensive gambles that did not pay off and a lack of full match fitness. Antonio Rüdiger also earned a 6.5, praised for ball distribution but considered slow in reading the play, highlighting the noticeable absence of both starting centre‑backs.

Marc Cucurella was rated 7.5, managing solid overall defense despite limited support on his flank and contributing an assist for Jude Bellingham. Bernardo Silva received a 7, showing confidence on the ball but struggling out of possession, while Eduardo Camavinga also earned 7.5, recording nine tackles and playing a key role in the build‑up to Real’s second goal. Yan Diomande matched Camavinga’s rating, with four successful dribbles and constant threat from the wing.

Jude Bellingham topped the ratings with an 8.5, described as a wizard in the first half and a decisive scorer. Vinícius Júnior was rated 4, losing possession 11 times, failing to complete a dribble, and missing shooting opportunities. Kylian Mbappé earned a 7, missing several chances but scoring a crucial second‑half equaliser and hitting the crossbar.

Substitutes Fede Valverde and Endrick both received 8.5 and 8 ratings respectively, with Valverde dominating in transition, delivering three key passes, and scoring the winning goal. Endrick’s dynamic play included a breakaway that set up Mbappé and a corner that led to Valverde’s goal. Brahim Díaz was rated 7 for providing the assist for Valverde’s winner, and Álvaro Carreras earned a 6.5 for solid possession and attacking runs. Carlos Espí was not rated.