Bellingham relieved after 1st goal in ‘long time now’

Jude Bellingham ended his scoring drought with a decisive strike as Real Madrid beat Juventus 1-0 in the Champions League on Wednesday, securing their third consecutive group-stage victory. The England midfielder, who had not scored since undergoing shoulder surgery in July, converted from close range in the second half to lift Madrid two points clear at the top of Group D.

Bellingham reacted quickest inside the six-yard box after Vinícius Júnior’s effort struck the post, giving Madrid a vital home win at the Santiago Bernabéu. It was the 21-year-old’s first goal of the season and comes just days before Sunday’s LaLiga Clásico against Barcelona.

“It’s a great feeling — it’s been a long time since I last scored,” Bellingham told CBS after the match. “I’ve been out for a while and dreamed of that moment, especially here at home, in the Champions League, against a big team. To score the winner feels unbelievable.”

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praised Bellingham’s awareness and instinct. “That’s what you get from players like him,” Courtois said. “He reads the second ball so well. He’s getting back to his best level, and he had a great game tonight.”

After a prolific debut campaign in Spain — scoring 19 goals in LaLiga — Bellingham endured a challenging 2024–25 season as Madrid failed to win major silverware. Reflecting on that period, he said, “I didn’t think last year was a disaster — 15 goals and 14 assists — but it wasn’t at the level I expect of myself. I feel good now, stronger after surgery, and the new manager has a clear idea of how we want to play.”

Manager Xabi Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the summer, defended his decision to ease Bellingham back into action after injury setbacks. “Independently of the goal, Jude had a very complete game,” Alonso said. “He adapted well in a match with little space. He’s competitive, covers ground, wins duels, and arrives in the box — that’s why he’s one of the most complete players in the world.”

Bellingham’s return to form is a timely boost for Madrid as they prepare to face Barcelona this weekend, holding a slender two-point lead at the top of LaLiga after nine matches.