Jude Bellingham hailed Real Madrid’s defensive duo, Aurelien Tchouameni and Raúl Asencio, after their team staged a stunning late comeback to defeat Manchester City.
Despite man city leading 2-1 with just 10 minutes left—thanks to Erling Haaland’s brace—Pep Guardiola’s side suffered another costly collapse. Late goals from Brahim Diaz and Bellingham flipped the match on its head, leaving Real Madrid in control of the Champions League tie.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men pulled off the victory despite a defensive crisis. With Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal all sidelined, the coach was forced into creative solutions.
Federico Valverde slotted in at right-back, while Tchouameni partnered with 21-year-old Asencio—who only made his senior debut in November—as Real’s makeshift center-back pairing.
Speaking to Amazon Prime, Bellingham praised their efforts:
“Two of our four defenders were midfielders. Tchouameni plays there often, but it’s a tough position, especially facing someone like Haaland.”
He also highlighted Asencio’s composure:
“He’s only been in the first team for four months, yet he stepped into the Etihad and delivered. I’m really proud of all four of them, especially those two.”
Real Madrid, now in the driver’s seat, will look to finish the job when they host City at the Bernabeu next Wednesday.