Real Madrid stage incredible comeback to sink Roma 4-3

By Tosin Omojola

Real Madrid scored three late goals to overturn a 3-1 deficit and secure a dramatic Champions League victory over Roma on Jose Mourinho’s return to the Stadio Olimpico.

Mourinho, who led Roma to the Europa Conference League title in 2021-22 and the Europa League final the following season, received a warm reception from home fans, who displayed banners celebrating their former manager.

However, his current side looked set for defeat after falling two goals behind in the 83rd minute.
Substitutes Carlos Espi and Endrick scored to level the match before Antonio Rudiger volleyed home the winner from close range in the 90th minute.

Real’s comeback was inspired by substitute Arda Guler, whose corners created all three late goals. Espi converted a rebound five minutes after coming on, Endrick headed in Guler’s delivery to make it 3-3, and Rudiger completed the turnaround with another set-piece finish.

Roma had taken the lead in the 20th minute when Marten de Roon fired home a first-time shot from 20 yards following a pass from Matias Soule.

Real responded five minutes later when Kylian Mbappe, making his 100th Champions League appearance, scored his 72nd goal in the competition. His effort deflected off Gianluca Mancini and looped over goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.

However, Donyell Malen struck twice in a six-minute spell in the second half to put Roma 3-1 ahead, leaving Real with a mountain to climb.

They responded with a remarkable late surge, scoring three times to snatch victory in a thrilling finish.