Real Madrid Edge Inter In Champions League Opener

Real Madrid began their 2026/27 UEFA Champions League campaign with a 2–1 victory over Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu, giving José Mourinho a winning start in Europe during his second spell in charge of the Spanish giants. Inter actually started the match strongly and enjoyed plenty of possession, forcing Thibaut Courtois into an early save from Marcus Thuram. Madrid, however, were ruthless when their chances arrived. In the 14th minute, Brahim Díaz capitalised on an Inter mistake and released Kylian Mbappé, who finished first time to give the hosts the lead. Just nine minutes later, Madrid doubled their advantage. Inter goalkeeper Josep Martínez hesitated in possession under pressure and Federico Valverde stole the ball before scoring, giving Mourinho’s side a 2–0 advantage after only 23 minutes. The scoreline did not fully reflect the balance of the match, with Inter continuing to create chances and putting Madrid under sustained pressure. Courtois was repeatedly called into action, while Inter also struck the crossbar during the first half. At the other end, Madrid had opportunities to extend their lead, but Martínez produced several impressive saves. Inter eventually found a way back into the contest when Carlos Augusto scored in the 77th minute, finishing from Lautaro Martínez’s delivery to make it 2–1 and set up a tense final period. The Italian side pushed hard for an equaliser, but Courtois came to Madrid’s rescue again, including a crucial late intervention to deny Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Madrid survived the pressure and secured their first three points of the Champions League league phase. For Mourinho, the victory was especially significant because it came against the club he led to the historic treble in 2010. Real Madrid were not always in control, but their clinical finishing and Courtois’ performance proved enough to secure a winning start to another European campaign.