Bellingham taps in rebound, helps Real get into Clasico mood with win over Juventus

Jude Bellingham has produced goals way more spectacular but his winner on Wednesday sent a message to Real Madrid’s rivals, among whom are La Liga leaders Barcelona at the weekend and Liverpool early next month. And to Thomas Tuchel ahead of England's engagements against Serbia and Albania next month.

- Dhiman Sarkar

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham celebrates after scoring against Juventus in Madrid on Wednesday.

(AP)

“I felt comfortable, really good,” Bellingham said after the 1-0 win, a result that put Real among five teams who have an all-win record after match day three of the Champions League.

The 57th minute strike came because Vinicius Jr brilliantly managed to find space and shoot and because Bellingham, shrugging off Juventus central defender Lloyd Kelly, reacted first to ricochet off the upright.

Playing close to goal in his first season at Real had fetched Bellingham 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 matches. With Aurélien Tchouaméni and Arda Giller available, it is the role he is likely to perform this term.

Two minutes in, Bellingham put his arm up and made a forward run but Real didn’t play to him. Caught offside in the 33rd minute, Bellingham looked frustrated at the absence of Real players in the rival box.

As Real stepped up after motoring through the first half, Bellingam met a ball from the impressive Giiler with a header but couldn't get a proper connection or the right direction. The goal was coming.