Three Key Questions Answered

1. Was Vinícius fit enough to start?

Vinícius Júnior made a return to the starting line-up after missing four games, a gamble that paid off handsomely for Carlo Ancelotti. His presence on the pitch transformed Real Madrid's dynamics, immediately pinning back Atalanta's defense. In a dazzling display, he scored a stunning goal just minutes after the restart and set up another for the in-form Jude Bellingham just three minutes later. His explosive return signals a massive boost for Los Blancos, who had been struggling with confidence and attacking flair without their star forward.

2. How did Aurélien Tchouameni perform in defense?

There were concerns about the defensive setup after Ancelotti dropped Raúl Asencio for this critical match. However, Aurélien Tchouameni’s seamless transition to central defense showcased his versatility and strength. While he did concede a penalty by clipping Sead Kolasinac's heels, he maintained an impressive defensive performance overall, making nine clearances and achieving a remarkable 98% pass completion rate. Tchouameni's strong presence in the backline not only steadied the defense but also helped Real Madrid maintain composure while playing out from the back—a necessity in high-stakes matches like this one.

3. Is Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign back on track?

The victory over Atalanta brings Real Madrid's standing up to 21st in their group, closing the gap to the top eight to a manageable three points. With subsequent matches against RB Salzburg and Brest, a six-point haul seems essential to reinstate them firmly in the race for qualification. This crucial away win not only alleviates pressure on the squad but also boosts morale significantly, especially since it was their first victory on European soil this season.

But Wait, There’s More!

What about Kylian Mbappé’s injury?

Kylian Mbappé's sudden exit from the match raised eyebrows as he limped off when he seemed to be in peak form. Ancelotti eased fans’ fears, stating it was just discomfort in the groin, and while not deemed serious, his fitness will be monitored closely as crucial fixtures approach. With league matches looming and the Intercontinental Cup final on the horizon, managing his recovery properly will be pivotal for Real Madrid's campaign.

As the Champions League heats up, Real Madrid's road to glory is fraught with challenges—but with a healthy lineup, renewed confidence, and tactical brilliance, they might just be on the brink of reclaiming their status as European powerhouses! Keep watching—this season is shaping up to be one for the history books!