Real Madrid began their European campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu, overcoming a late scare to secure all three points. The win provided a timely response to their first domestic defeat of the season, while handing Inter their first loss across all competitions this term.
First-Half Dominance
The match started with Inter posing an early threat, testing Real Madrid’s defense and forcing goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into several crucial saves. The Belgian shot-stopper denied attempts from Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez, keeping the hosts level during a tense opening period.
Against the run of play, Real Madrid capitalized on defensive errors to take control. In the 14th minute, Brahim Diaz seized on a mistake by Inter defender Jan Bisseck, setting up Kylian Mbappe, who slotted the ball into the net. Nine minutes later, Federico Valverde pounced on a misjudgment by Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez, dispossessing him and scoring to double the lead.
Despite Inter’s efforts to respond before halftime, Courtois and the Real Madrid backline held firm, preserving the two-goal advantage.
Second-Half Pressure and a Late Goal
The second half saw an open exchange of chances, with both goalkeepers making impressive stops to keep the scoreline intact. Inter finally pulled one back in the 77th minute when Lautaro Martinez delivered a cross that Carlos Augusto met with a clinical finish.
In the closing stages, Inter pushed relentlessly for an equalizer, but Courtois continued his standout performance, making a vital save in the 89th minute. Real Madrid weathered the storm to secure a valuable victory and begin their Champions League journey with three points.