Bellingham on target as Real Madrid defeat Union Berlin

• Real Madrid hosted Union Berlin in the UEFA Champions League week one
• The hosts had to put in extra effort to defeat the resilient German side
• It took a sole stoppage-time goal from the in-form Jude Bellingham to win the match at Bernabeu

Jude Bellingham continued his remarkable start to his Real Madrid career as he secured a dramatic stoppage-time victory against UEFA Champions League newcomers Union Berlin at the Bernabeu.

The hosts, who have claimed the prestigious European football title on 14 occasions, appeared to be heading for a frustrating draw as they struggled to break down the resilient Bundesliga outfit.

However, Bellingham came to the rescue, converting from close range with virtually the final kick of the Group C encounter. This goal marked his sixth in as many matches since his summer transfer from Borussia Dortmund and earned all three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham celebrates after scoring the winner against Union Berlin in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. | PHOTO: UEFA |

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Real Madrid entered their inaugural Champions League fixture with a flawless record in La Liga, placing them two points clear of arch-rivals Barcelona after five matches.

Bellingham has played a pivotal role in their impressive start, and the 20-year-old, the sixth English player to represent Real Madrid in the European Cup following Laurie Cunningham, Steve McManaman, David Beckham, Michael Owen, and Jonathan Woodgate, continued to be central to his team’s pursuit of victory under the floodlights.

In the early stages, it was Bellingham who delivered a cross that Joselu directed straight into the arms of Frederik Ronnow – the first of three headers he would be unable to convert during a lackluster opening period.

After the break, Joselu’s header was then tipped onto the post by Ronnow.

Ancelotti’s men began to raise their game, and Rodrygo had two promising opportunities to give his team the lead – first forcing a fine save from Ronnow and then striking the woodwork with another effort.

However, as time ran out, Real Madrid appeared headed for a disappointing draw, with Ancelotti’s frustration clearly visible. That was until Bellingham turned the tide and saved the night.

Following Real’s 16th corner of the one-sided contest, Federico Valverde’s shot from the edge of the area was blocked, and the ball fell perfectly into Bellingham’s path. The unmarked England international couldn’t miss, prodding home from just over a yard out. He celebrated by wheeling away in jubilation, basking in the adoration of the enthusiastic home crowd.