Vinicius Jr. Orchestrates Stunning Real Madrid Comeback with Hat-Trick Against Dortmund

Real Madrid produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in a thrilling Champions League encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Trailing 2-0 at half-time, Real Madrid were inspired by a sensational hat-trick from Vinicius Jr. to secure a memorable victory.

Dortmund, who lost to Real in last year’s final, started strongly and took a commanding lead through goals from Donyell Malen and English youngster Jamie Gittens. The visitors looked set to end Real’s 14-match unbeaten home run in the competition.

However, Antonio Rüdiger ignited the comeback with a powerful header in the 60th minute. Just two minutes later, Vinicius Jr. leveled the score, capitalizing on a defensive lapse.

Despite Dortmund captain Julian Brandt coming close to restoring their lead, it was Real Madrid who surged ahead in the 83rd minute. Lucas Vázquez finished emphatically from a tight angle to put the hosts in front.

Vinicius Jr. then took center stage, scoring two late goals to complete his hat-trick and seal the victory for Real Madrid. Both goals were the result of mesmerizing solo runs, showcasing the Brazilian’s exceptional dribbling skills and clinical finishing.

While Real struggled offensively in the first half, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham unable to combine effectively, they were transformed after the break. Vinicius Jr., a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or award, was at the heart of their resurgence.

His second goal was particularly impressive, as he collected the ball in his own half, surged down the left flank, and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner.

This victory gives Carlo Ancelotti’s side their second win in the group stage, leaving them with the same record as Dortmund.

Meanwhile, Gittens, at 20 years and 75 days old, became the youngest Englishman to score against Real Madrid in the Champions League. He surpassed the record previously held by Alan Smith, who achieved the feat while playing for Leeds United in March 2001.