Jude Bellingham is relieved to net the first goal.Jude Bellingham delighted Real Madrid supporters at the Santiago Bernabéu with his first goal of the season in the club’s pulsating 1-0 Champions League victory over Juventus on Wednesday. The strike was a “great feeling” for him, marking his first of the season. The England midfielder struck from within the six-yard box after Vinicius Jr.’s effort struck the post and returned. The victory extended Real’s Champions League record to three victories in as many games, cementing their hold.
Delight of a goal after an eternity. Bellingham had not scored since having shoulder surgery in July. This achievement not only guaranteed his comeback to his old self but also raised his confidence going into Sunday’s much-awaited El Clásico match against Barcelona. In an interview with CBS, Bellingham explained, “It’s an amazing feeling. It’s been a while since I’ve scored. It was hard being out after surgery, and I’ve been dreaming about this moment—being back in the Champions League, against a top team, and scoring the winner at home.”
He added, “I felt at ease on the pitch. It was crucial to play well, and scoring the decisive goal means a lot to me and the team.”
Courtois and Alonso commended. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had kind words to say about Bellingham, stating, “That’s what I like about a player like Jude. He’s always in the right place at the right time. Vini made his run, and Jude followed the second ball. He’s back to his best.”
New manager Xabi Alonso has also spoken highly of Bellingham’s performance. “Jude’s game was about more than goals,” he averred. “Juventus played with a deep defense, which did not leave a lot of space. However, Jude stood out due to his positioning, ball-winning, and being in the box. He is a player who can play all across the pitch and is one of the most well-rounded players in the world.”
Last Season’s Challenges. Bellingham netted 19 La Liga goals for Real Madrid during his debut season, becoming a crowd favorite. The 2024-25 season was difficult for him, though, as Madrid were on the brink of ending the season without winning a major honor. Bellingham has said, “Last season was not bad for me. I scored 15 goals and had 14 assists, but I did not feel that we played at the level that I wanted. Now, after surgery and under a new manager, I want to get back to the form I was in during my first season.
Confidence before the Clasico. Real Madrid are two points clear of Barcelona in La Liga after nine games. The victory over Juventus and Bellingham’s strike are a huge morale booster for the team before the Clasico. Alonso also complimented Bellingham’s performance in the last game against Getafe, and now his strike against Juventus has established his form.
Bellingham’s Future. With Xabi Alonso in charge, Real Madrid is playing in a renewed style and with great energy. Bellingham’s goal is not just a milestone for him but for the whole team as well. Along the way, fans are looking forward to even greater performances from Bellingham, particularly in the coming Barcelona match.
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