Jude Bellingham continued to score goals for Real Madrid against Braga in the Champions League before being substituted off with a knock.
AHEAD OF TIME? Not long after the hour mark, Bellingham scored his third goal in as many Champions League games, which turned out to be the game-winning goal in the 2-1 triumph in Portugal. He was taken off the field in the 89th minute due to what appeared to be a knock, raising questions about whether he would be available for Saturday’s Clasico matchup against Barcelona, his bitter rivals.
WHAT THEY SAID: After the match, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed media to ease concerns about a potential major injury, saying, “Jude Bellingham is not in danger for El Clasico.” He didn’t sustain any major injuries; just some little pain.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: If Bellingham isn’t judged totally fit, Madrid will suffer a severe loss. Following a high-profile transfer from Borussia Dortmund, he has made a spectacular start to life at the Bernabeu, failing to score in just three of his 12 outings thus far.
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WHAT NEXT FOR REAL & BELLINGHAM? Real sit top of La Liga and will be looking to stay there as they gear up for a mouth-watering clash with old foes Barcelona in Catalonia on Saturday afternoon. They will be desperate to have Bellingham involved.