November 30, (THEWILL) – Real Madrid cemented their status as Group C winners in the UEFA Champions League last night, defeating a spirited Napoli side 4-2 at the Santiago Bernabéu. An early scare was swiftly reversed as Los Blancos rallied to claim an important victory on home soil.
Despite having already qualified for the knockout stages, manager Carlo Ancelotti knew avoiding defeat would guarantee them the top spot ahead of their final group match. However, the visitors took a shock lead on 9 minutes when Giovanni Simeone bundled home at the back post.
Madrid though turned the game on its head within just 60 seconds, Rodrygo stylishly curling in an equaliser from the edge of the box. English sensation Jude Bellingham then rose highest to powerfully head the hosts in front on 18 minutes as they took control of the clash.
Napoli refused to roll over after the break as Frank-Andre Zambo Anguissa hammered them level once more in the 47th minute. With Victor Osimhen introduced after the break, both sides had chances to forge ahead but some inspired goalkeeping kept the scores tied.
As the match ticked into its final quarter though, a wicked deflection off Nicolas Paz’s drive from a distance caught Alex Meret cold as it nestled in the bottom corner. Joselu then wrapped up an important three points that ensures Madrid will avoid other group winners in the Round of 16 draw.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
