Valverde, Bellingham react after AEK Athens 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘The team never stops trying’

Valverde, Bellingham react after AEK Athens 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘The team never stops trying’ Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde have offered their reactions to Real Madrid’s dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over AEK Athens, with the two midfielders playing decisive roles in another memorable European comeback.  Bellingham was named Man of the Match after scoring Madrid’s equaliser in the 32nd minute, while Valverde struck in the 92nd minute to secure all three points and preserve the club’s perfect record in the league phase. Real Madrid had to recover from going behind twice in Athens, with Aboubakary Koita and Stavros Pilios putting the hosts ahead on separate occasions.  Kylian Mbappe restored parity after Pilios’ goal before Valverde produced the decisive moment with a stunning long-range finish. Speaking to RMTV after the final whistle, Bellingham and Valverde highlighted the team’s determination, the influence of the coaching staff and the collective belief that continues to drive Madrid’s late comebacks. Bellingham reflects on his goal and another Real Madrid comeback Bellingham played an important role in Real Madrid’s response after AEK took an early lead.  The England international brought the visitors level in the 32nd minute, finishing after a pass from Marc Cucurella to give his side renewed momentum. Named Man of the Match, the midfielder acknowledged the difficulty of the encounter and the effort required to secure the victory. “A very difficult match. We’ve worked hard to win this, coming from behind twice. A very important victory on our journey in this season’s Champions League.” Jude Bellingham was on the scoresheet against AEK Athens. (Photo by Milos Bicanski/Getty Images) Furthermore, Bellingham was keen to emphasise that the mentality behind these victories must remain consistent rather than becoming something the team relies upon only when results are going against them. “Another comeback, but that’s the Real Madrid mentality – and the mentality we need to maintain for the rest of the season.  “We’re heading to Valencia raring to go, and hopefully we’ll win because the next match is the most important one.” The midfielder also explained the instinctive nature of his goal, giving credit to the delivery that created the opportunity. “It was instinct and a bit of quality. It was a great pass from Marc (Cucurella).” Valverde’s contribution inevitably attracted attention, with Bellingham acknowledging that his teammate’s spectacular winner was even more impressive than his own effort. “Much better than mine. It’s no surprise that Fede shoots like that, but it was a very important goal for us, and you could see that in the team’s reaction. We’re very happy with the three points.” Valverde credits Mourinho for Madrid’s late goals While Bellingham provided the initial response, Valverde ultimately became the hero of the evening.  Valverde scored a stunning last-minute winner against AEK. (Photo by Milos Bicanski/Getty Images) Introduced in the 67th minute, the Uruguayan midfielder needed just 25 minutes to produce the moment that decided the contest. His 92nd-minute strike from outside the penalty area completed Madrid’s comeback, with Brahim Diaz providing the assist.  Speaking about Madrid’s ability to score decisive late goals , the midfielder credited both the coaching staff and the collective belief within the dressing room. “That’s down to the coaching staff and also to us, for continuing to trust each and every one of our teammates. The coaching staff trust us and always give us that boost, that energy from the bench.  “It’s always a pleasure for us to play for them. That’s evident in the closing minutes. The team never stops trying.  “After they scored their second goal, it looked like we were going to struggle, but the team fought back again.” The midfielder was also asked about his spectacular winning strike and the confidence required to attempt such an effort in the closing stages. “Sometimes I think about it a lot. As I always say, I’m grateful to my teammates, who are the ones who give me the confidence to take the shot. I thank them all for their support,” he concluded.