Real Madrid began their 2026/27 Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Spanish giants were pushed for long periods by José Mourinho’s Inter side, but Madrid ultimately made their important moments count to secure three points.
Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring for Madrid, continuing his excellent scoring form and immediately reminding European football of his importance to the club. Federico Valverde also found the net as Madrid established a two-goal advantage before Inter managed to respond.
Despite taking the lead, Madrid were far from comfortable. Inter enjoyed significant possession and created several dangerous situations, forcing goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into a number of important saves. Courtois was particularly influential during the closing stages when Inter pushed aggressively for an equaliser.
Carlos Augusto eventually pulled one goal back for Inter, setting up a tense final period. Madrid were forced to defend deeper as the Italian side searched for a second goal, but the hosts managed to survive the pressure.
Fede Valverde was widely praised for his performance and was named Man of the Match, while Courtois’ contribution was also crucial to the victory.
The result gives Madrid an early advantage in the league phase and represents an important opening statement from one of Europe’s most successful clubs. Inter will take confidence from their performance despite the defeat, but Madrid’s ability to punish mistakes once again proved decisive on the biggest stage.
