Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr stepped up when Real Madrid needed them to help them beat Atalanta 3-1 in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappe had put Los Blancos ahead at the Gewiss Stadium before going off injured in a potential major blow to Carlo Ancelotti.
With key players like David Alaba, Eder Militao, Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Carvajal missing, losing Mbappe at a crucial moment in the season could be even more bad news for Real Madrid.
However, if they can keep star duo Bellingham and Vinicius Jr fit, it might not matter as they have the ability to win matches on their own.
Jude Bellingham put Real Madrid 3-1 up in a pivotal victory
Reuters
And after a spirited display from Atalanta, who scored twice through Charles de Keteleare and Ademola Lookman, Real Madrid needed it.
Two goals against the run of play shortly after half-time saw Real take control of the match – the first from Vinicius Jr, who was the fortunate receiver of a deflected ball, though the finish was expertly pulled off.
Bellingham then made it 3-1 with a fine piece of skill to cut in on his left foot before a hard-hit low drive beat Marco Carnesecchi.
It continued his brilliant scoring run, his sixth match on the scoresheet in a row, having overcome some poor early season form to reestablish himself as one of the superstars in world football.
Charlton academy graduate Lookman reduced the deficit with a brilliant goal of his own, smashing the ball through Lucas Vazquez’s legs.
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But Atalanta could not find the equaliser in what could be a pivotal victory in Real Madrid’s season.
Ancelotti was already under pressure before the night started with his side struggling in the Champions League.
The Italian’s men now have nine points from six matches and have two more games to try elevate themselves into the top eight – who qualify for the latter stages of the competition without having to take part in a play-off.
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Kylian Mbappe gave Real Madrid an issue with an injury in the first half
Reuters
The win also came against a side that have been performing above their station somewhat, sitting in the top eight and have proved that they can compete at this level, having won the Europa League last season.
Overall, it was nearly the perfect night for Ancelotti, had it not been for Mbappe’s injury.
The Frenchman has come under immense scrutiny this season, especially after his turgid performance against Liverpool earlier this campaign where he missed a penalty.
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Vinicius Jr also stepped up for Real Madrid
Reuters
But he took his chance in fine fashion in the opening moments against Atalanta, pulling off a lovely touch to bamboozle the Italian defence before a pinpoint finish – his 50th goal in the Champions League in his career.
It was only his second goal in the Champions League this season, having failed to score against Liverpool, Lille, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan.
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