Valverde's Rocket Clinches It! Real Madrid Edge AEK Athens as Como Hit 9-1 Record
Federico Valverde's late goal secures a 3-2 win for Real Madrid, while Cesc Fabregas's Como equals the UCL record with a 9-1 demolition of RC Lens.
The UEFA Champions League delivered high-octane drama on Wednesday, featuring a nail-biting comeback from the 15-time champions Real Madrid and a historic, goal-heavy demolition by Cesc Fabregas's Como. While Madrid fought until the final moments to secure a 3-2 victory over AEK Athens, Como sent shockwaves through European football by thrashing RC Lens 9-1.
Real Madrid's Gritty Comeback in Athens
Real Madrid's journey to the second spot in the Champions League table was anything but easy. Facing AEK Athens on their home turf, the Spanish giants found themselves trailing early when Aboubakary Koita scored in the 12th minute, courtesy of an assist from Luka Jovic.
Madrid attempted to respond quickly, but a goal involving a cross from Vinicius Jr and a touch by Jude Bellingham was ruled out for offside. However, Bellingham didn't let the setback linger. In the 32nd minute, the Englishman silenced the crowd with a spectacular backheel to level the score.
Late Drama and the Valverde Magic
The match swung back in favor of the hosts in the 75th minute. Once again, Aboubakary Koita was the catalyst, providing the assist for Stavro Pilo to put AEK Athens ahead 2-1, leaving Madrid on the brink of defeat.
The response was swift. Just three minutes later, in the 78th minute, Kylian Mbappe pounced on a cross from Denzel Dumfries to make it 2-2. With the clock ticking down and a draw seeming likely, Federico Valverde stepped up to play the hero. Valverde unleashed a powerful "rocket" that flew into the top corner of the net, sealing a 3-2 win for the visitors.
With this result, Real Madrid maintains a flawless four-match run, sitting just behind defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on goal difference.
Como's Historic 9-1 Massacre of RC Lens
While Madrid was fighting for every inch, Cesc Fabregas's Como was enjoying a footballing carnival. In a stunning display of offensive dominance, the debutants dismantled Ligue 1 side RC Lens 9-1, equalling the record for the biggest win in the history of the tournament—a feat previously held by Real Madrid's 8-0 win over Malmo in 2015.
A Goal-Fest for the Ages
Como's onslaught began early and never let up. Tasos Douvikas was the star of the night, netting a sensational hat-trick with goals in the 7th, 32nd, and 57th minutes. He was supported by a flurry of goals from other attackers:
- Nico Paz: 40th minute
- Lucas da Cunha: 47th minute
- Marc-Oliver Kempf: 53rd minute
By the one-hour mark, the score stood at a staggering 6-0. RC Lens managed a lonely consolation goal through Ruben Aguilar in the 65th minute, but it did little to stem the tide. Como continued their rampage with goals from Mattia Liberali (62nd minute), Martin Baturina (69th minute), and a final blow from Matteo Papaccioli in the 92nd minute.
The New Powerhouses of the UCL
Como's debut season has been nothing short of a fairy tale. Following wins over RB Leipzig and Manchester United, their 19 goals in four matches are second only to PSG's 20. With a goal difference of +13 (compared to PSG's +15), Como has established itself as a formidable force in the competition, conceding only six goals in the process.