Real Madrid defeats Inter Milan 2-1 in Champions League opener

Real Madrid defeated Inter Milan 2-1 in their opening UEFA Champions League league phase match at the Santiago Bernabéu. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring following a misplaced pass by Inter's Curtis Jones, and Federico Valverde added a second goal in the 23rd minute after capitalizing on an error by goalkeeper Josep Martínez.

Despite Inter Milan dominating possession and recording more shots, Real Madrid secured the victory behind a standout performance from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who made seven saves. Following the match, Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho expressed frustration that Courtois was not named Man of the Match, jokingly suggesting that “those who decide it were perhaps sleeping.”

Valverde, who received the Man of the Match award for his decisive goal, echoed Mourinho's sentiments, stating that Courtois deserved the recognition for saving the team. Inter Milan managed a late consolation goal through Carlos Augusto in the 77th minute.