Dramatic Comeback Stuns Roma
Real Madrid secured a sensational 4-3 victory over Roma in the Champions League, staging a remarkable comeback by scoring three goals in the final six minutes to overturn a 3-1 deficit. The dramatic encounter also marked José Mourinho’s first return to the Stadio Olimpico as an opposing manager.
Roma initially took the lead through Marten de Roon, but Kylian Mbappé, making his 100th Champions League appearance, quickly equalised for Real Madrid. Donyell Malen then scored twice in a six-minute spell early in the second half, putting Roma 3-1 ahead and seemingly on course for a significant win against the 15-time European champions.
However, Real Madrid launched a stunning late assault, with all three of their decisive goals originating from corners. Carlos Espí began the comeback, followed by Endrick, before former Roma defender Antonio Rüdiger netted the winner, completing the dramatic turnaround.
Mourinho’s Emotional Return Overshadowed
The match was a memorable occasion for José Mourinho, who spent two-and-a-half years managing Roma, leading them to a Conference League title and an Europa League final. Supporters displayed banners and sang in his honour, despite the late collapse. It was also Roma’s first home Champions League match in over seven years, adding to the significance of the evening.
Vinícius Júnior Ban Sparks Controversy
Adding to the pre-match drama, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior received a four-match ban, announced shortly before kick-off, for pulling an opponent’s hair during a previous league match against Villarreal. Mourinho criticised the timing of this announcement.
“They do things shamelessly now,” Mourinho stated. “The cat is out of the bag now. Two hours before the match, a player must know he has a four-match suspension. Couldn’t they do it now? Couldn’t they do it tomorrow morning? Do we have to come by bus and almost arrive at the stadium when we find out?”