Valverde’s stoppage-time strike earns Real Madrid comeback win over AEK Athens

Federico Valverde scored in the second minute of added time to complete Real Madrid’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

Real Madrid had fallen behind to their Greek hosts in the fourth round of the league phase, but recovered to claim three valuable points after Valverde’s late winner.

Speaking to Movistar, Valverde said the team’s ability to regain control after conceding had been decisive.

“It was a difficult and complicated match. I think we controlled the game. I congratulate the team for its efforts,” he said.

“Their first goal affected us, but the team continued playing in the usual way and carrying out the work we had done during the week. We regained control and felt comfortable again. We started attacking once more and put in the same effort as before.”

Real Madrid had to overturn the deficit after AEK Athens took the lead, but Valverde said the comeback reflected the belief maintained by both the players and the coaching staff.

“Credit goes to the coaching staff and the players for continuing to trust their team-mates,” the Real Madrid captain said.

Valverde also spoke positively about working under the current coaching team, insisting the side would continue to fight until the final whistle.

“It is a pleasure for me to play under this coaching staff. We will never stop trying,” he added.

The midfielder’s decisive goal came in the closing seconds, securing a victory that appeared unlikely earlier in the match. Valverde said the confidence of his team-mates had encouraged him to keep attempting such moments.

“Sometimes I think about it too much. I am grateful to my team-mates, who give me the confidence to try,” he said.