Mbappé and Valverde Shine as Real Madrid Edge Inter Milan 2-1

Real Madrid kicked off their European campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu. The high-stakes clash marked a triumphant European return for manager José Mourinho against his former club.

The hosts capitalized early on Inter’s defensive vulnerabilities. In the 14th minute, Brahim Díaz intercepted a loose pass and set up Kylian Mbappé, who clinicaly slotted home his 71st UCL career goal, tying club legend Raúl. Madrid doubled their lead just nine minutes later when Federico Valverde intercepted a misplaced pass from Inter goalkeeper Josep Martínez and easily converted into an empty net.

Inter Milan refused to back down, amplifying their attacking pressure in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 77th minute when Carlos Augusto connected with a precise cross from Lautaro Martínez, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.

The closing minutes saw relentless pressure from the Italian side, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced a series of world-class saves to deny Marcus Thuram and Martínez. Courtois’ heroics ensured Los Blancos secured all three points in a thrilling opening match, setting a commanding tone for their continental campaign.