Real Madrid opened their Champions League campaign with a dramatic 2-1 win over Inter Milan as they survived a tense late spell to take three points at the Santiago Bernabéu. Kylian Mbappé and Federico Valverde scored for Real while Carlos Augusto equalised for Inter.
It was emotional too because Mourinho had played in one of the great moments of his career for Real Madrid when he took Inter to the Champions League title in their historic treble-winning season 2009–10 (Inter’s current coach Cristian Chivu was also part of that team).
Mbappé and Valverde Make the Difference
Real Madrid started the game with the attacking intent expected from their Spanish giants but Inter were hard to break down. The Italians organisation and discipline got in the way of Madrid’s rhythm on several occasions and prevented them turning possession into dominance.
Mbappé eventually broke the deadlock and handed Real Madrid the advantage and another important goal to his growing reputation in Europe. Inter didn’t fold, though; they kept on looking for a way back into the contest.
Valverde then doubled Madrid’s lead and made it look like home side were coasting but the game wasn’t over yet.
Inter Push Madrid to the Limit
Inter came back strongly and Carlos Augusto reduced the deficit. It turned the closing stages into a nervous battle as Real Madrid had to defend their narrow lead.
The visitors kept pressing forward, testing Madrid’s defence and the Bernabéu atmosphere became uncertain. What had been a comfortable victory was now a fight for survival.
Madrid held on at the end and showed the kind of resilience that has been their hallmark in European campaigns time and again. It wasn’t a perfect performance but being able to hold onto a lead under pressure could be useful during the long Champions League run.
A Memorable Night for Mourinho
Mourinho felt the occasion was huge. His history with Inter made it one of the most intriguing opening night stories in the competition; Mourinho faced former players, memories and a club that remains closely associated with one of his greatest achievements.
In the end Mourinho’s Real Madrid got the job done. 2-1 win wasn’t comfortable but it gave them exactly what they needed — three points.
Madrid will know there is still work to do (allowing Inter back into the game) but on a night of history and pressure they managed to survive.
