Vinicius Jr scores hat-trick in stunning Real Madrid comeback win

Vinicius Jr delivered a hat-trick as Real Madrid staged a remarkable second-half comeback, overturning a 2-0 deficit to defeat Borussia Dortmund 5-2.

Dortmund took control in the first half with goals from Donyell Malen and Englishman Jamie Gittens, putting them in a strong position, echoing last year’s final where Real Madrid emerged 2-0 winners.

In the 60th minute, Antonio Rudiger sparked the comeback with a towering header, followed by Vinicius Jr’s equalizer just two minutes later.

Captain Lucas Vazquez then gave Real Madrid the lead in the 83rd minute with a precise finish from a tight angle.

Vinicius Jr completed the dramatic turnaround with two late goals, both following impressive solo efforts, sealing the victory for the Spanish champions.

At half-time, Borussia Dortmund seemed poised to end Real Madrid’s 14-match unbeaten home run in the Champions League.

Even at 2-2, Dortmund captain Julian Brandt came close to restoring their lead with a shot from close range, but Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a brilliant save with his feet.

Moments later, Lucas Vazquez put Real ahead.

Real Madrid struggled offensively in the first half, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham failing to connect effectively, despite Bellingham hitting the underside of the bar when they were 2-0 down.

However, inspired by Vinicius Jr—who is the frontrunner for next Monday’s Ballon d’Or—the home side became unstoppable in the second half.

The Brazilian’s second goal was a standout moment, as he picked up the ball in his own half, sprinted down the left flank, and fired a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side has now won two of their three group matches, equalling Dortmund’s record.

Additionally, Jamie Gittens, at 20 years and 75 days old, became the youngest Englishman to score against Real Madrid, surpassing Alan Smith’s record (20 years and 129 days), set in March 2001 while playing for Leeds.