On Matchday 3 of the UEFA Champions League Real Madrid secured a narrow but significant 1-0 victory over Juventus at the Santiago Bernabéu on 22 October 2025. With their third straight victory in the competition Real Madrid is maintaining a perfect start.
Real Madrid approached the match with patience and discipline. Nevertheless, the first half lacked clear-cut chances, with both teams seeking rhythm. After the half-time break, Real Madrid increased their pressure by using transitions effectively and controlling large parts of the game. Jude Bellingham’s quick movement and finish provided the decisive moment when he reacted to a rebound after Vini Jr.’s shot hit the post and put Real Madrid ahead with his goal.
Juventus lined up with a defensive formation and relied on counterattacks. Although they had possession at times, they struggled to break through Real Madrid’s well-organized defense and their scoring chances were sporadic.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois made several important saves and kept Juventus at bay, what allowed Real to defend their lead and secure the victory.
This game highlights the fine differences in top-level European football. A moment of quality with Bellingham’s goal and some key saves by Courtois were enough to decide the outcome. The 1-0 result may not reflect a spectacle of continuous attacks, but in such cases it’s efficiency, concentration and defensive organization that separate the winners from the rest. While Real Madrid did just enough to win, Juventus will need to improve their attacking output if they want to keep up in this competition.