Federico Valverde lashed home a stunning effort from distance to snatch Real Madrid a late 3-2 victory at AEK Athens on Wednesday in the Champions League and preserve their 100% start in the group phase, according to The Guardian. José Mourinho's side twice came from behind against the Greek champions before Valverde claimed all three points.
Aboubakary Koïta sent AEK ahead after 12 minutes before Jude Bellingham equalised with a sublime flick for the record 15-time winners. The hosts started with huge energy at the Agia Sophia Stadium, and Koïta shifted cleverly inside Marc Cucurella and thumped home at the near post, catching out goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
Stavros Pilios sent the Greek champions ahead with 15 minutes to go but Kylian Mbappé swiftly pulled Madrid level once again, setting the stage for Valverde's late winner. AEK had reclaimed the lead when Koïta nudged the ball into Pilios's path and the Albania international finished through Courtois's legs from close range, before Denzel Dumfries set up Mbappé.
Madrid substitute Endrick sent Mbappé through on goal with five minutes remaining but goalkeeper Alberto Brignoli produced a sensational save to tip his strike against the crossbar. Valverde refused to give up on the three points and in the 92nd minute lashed home across Brignoli to keep up Madrid's perfect record. Madrid have now won seven straight games across all competitions.