It was a tense night at the Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid began their Champions League defence with a dramatic 3-1 win over Stuttgart.
In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, late goals from Antonio Rudiger and young sensation Endrick saved the day for Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
The reigning champions managed to stave off a spirited Stuttgart side that pushed them all the way. In a thrilling display, Real Madrid proved once again why they are Europe’s most dominant force.
The victory, though nervy, showcased Real Madrid’s ability to handle pressure, especially when tested by a resilient Stuttgart side.
The match, played in front of a sold-out crowd, saw Real Madrid’s defence tested early and often. Thibaut Courtois was a standout performer, making crucial saves from Stuttgart’s Jamie Leweling and Angelo Stiller.
The home side also survived a near-disastrous moment when Dani Carvajal deflected a Stuttgart shot onto his own crossbar.
Despite the tense moments, it was Kylian Mbappe who broke the deadlock early in the second half. A swift counterattack led by Rodrygo found Mbappe, who slotted the ball home from close range.
However, Stuttgart responded with immense pressure and got their well-deserved equalizer in the 68th minute, courtesy of a perfectly timed header by Deniz Undav, who took advantage of slack Madrid marking.
As the clock ticked toward a draw, Luka Modric came off the bench and provided the spark Real Madrid needed. His corner found Antonio Rudiger in the 83rd minute, whose towering header restored the home side’s lead.
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Then, in stoppage time, the young Brazilian Endrick sealed the win with a powerful long-range shot, capitalizing on a misjudged clearance by Stuttgart goalkeeper Alexander Nubel.
This was Endrick’s first Champions League goal, and he became the youngest South American player to score on his debut in the competition.
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From the opening whistle, it was clear that Stuttgart came to the Bernabeu with a plan: unsettle Real Madrid and take control of the game.
They nearly succeeded in the first half, with the Bundesliga side dominating possession and creating more chances. However, they couldn’t find a way past the Madrid wall in goal—Thibaut Courtois.
Courtois pulled off a string of vital saves that kept Madrid in the match. His shot-stopping ability denied both Jamie Leweling and Angelo Stiller before halftime, preventing Stuttgart from taking what could have been a commanding lead.
His presence between the posts proved crucial, and without him, Madrid’s night could have been even more challenging.
Even after going a goal down early in the second half, Stuttgart didn’t back down. Their constant pressure and quick transitions caused Madrid problems throughout the game.
In fact, they nearly scored an equalizer earlier, with Carvajal diverting a shot onto his own crossbar—a heart-in-mouth moment for the home fans.
Stuttgart’s persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Jamie Leweling delivered a perfect cross to an unmarked Deniz Undav, who coolly headed the ball past Courtois.
This goal gave Stuttgart a lifeline and reignited their hopes of snatching a famous result in the Spanish capital.
With the match in the balance and Stuttgart growing in confidence, Carlo Ancelotti turned to one of his most reliable players—Luka Modric.
At 39 years old, Modric may not have the legs he once did, but his football intelligence and ability to turn games on their head are unparalleled.
Just minutes after coming on, Modric took a corner with pinpoint precision, and Antonio Rudiger rose highest to meet the ball.
His header gave Real Madrid a late 2-1 lead and sent the Bernabeu into raptures. Once again, Madrid showed their resilience and ability to find a way to win, even when not playing at their best.
Rudiger’s contribution was significant, as it ensured Real Madrid didn’t drop crucial points in a group where every win matters.
The German defender has become a key figure in Ancelotti’s squad, and his late goal demonstrated his importance
As the match edged toward full time, Stuttgart pushed forward in search of an equalizer, leaving gaps at the back. It was in this moment that Endrick,Real Madrid’s rising star, stepped up.
At just 18 years old, the Brazilian striker announced himself on the European stage with a stunning long-range effort that caught Stuttgart’s goalkeeper Alexander Nubel off guard.
Endrick’s goal in stoppage time secured all three points for Real Madrid and showcased his immense potential.
He became the youngest South American to score on his Champions League debut, and fans will be eager to see how his career unfolds.
Madrid’s investment in young talent like Endrick continues to pay off, as he looks set to follow in the footsteps of previous greats.
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