Real Madrid hold off Inter Milan in Champions League opener
Kylian Mbappé and Fede Valverde scored before Carlos Augusto’s late goal narrowed the margin at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Real Madrid began their Champions League campaign with a 2–1 victory over Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday, holding on after taking a two-goal lead.
Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 14th minute after an Inter defensive mistake. Fede Valverde then doubled Madrid’s advantage when he won possession from goalkeeper Josep Martínez and scored.
Inter created opportunities as Madrid defended their lead, but Courtois made several saves to deny the visitors. Martínez also recovered from his error with important stops, including efforts from Jude Bellingham and Mbappé.
Carlos Augusto reduced the deficit in the 77th minute, converting Lautaro Martínez’s cross. Inter were unable to find an equaliser, while Courtois made a late save from a deflected Henrikh Mkhitaryan effort.
France 24 described the match as Jose Mourinho’s return to Champions League competition as Real Madrid coach against former club Inter. Mourinho previously led Inter to Champions League victory at the Bernabéu in 2010, according to the report. Madrid entered the match after losing to Real Betis in La Liga on Friday.
