Mourinho: "Vini played a very acceptable match"

Mourinho defended Vinicius after Real Madrid's dramatic 3-2 comeback win at AEK Athens, saying the winger played acceptably despite being substituted.

José Mourinho defended Vinicius Junior after Real Madrid's thrilling 3-2 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League, secured by Fede Valverde's stoppage-time goal. The manager said he withdrew the Brazilian to inject fresh energy on the wing with two changes, bringing on Álvaro Rodríguez and Brahim Díaz, but insisted Vinicius had performed well.

Mourinho praised AEK Athens for their intensity and organization, calling it their best performance of the season. He highlighted Real Madrid's character in responding to going behind twice, first at 1-0 and then at 2-1, before Valverde's late winner sealed the comeback. The victory qualifies Madrid for the Champions League playoff round with 12 points, and Mourinho said the focus now shifts to securing enough points to avoid the playoff entirely.