Inter excludes Federico Dimarco from Real Madrid Champions League opener

Inter will travel to Spain for Tuesday's Champions League opener against Real Madrid without Federico Dimarco. The decision to leave the defender in Italy follows his early substitution during Saturday's 3-2 victory over Napoli. Dimarco reported knee discomfort during the first half and played with a support strap before requesting to be taken off in the 62nd minute. Although subsequent medical evaluations ruled out long-term injury, the club opted to keep him out of the squad as a precaution. Carlos Augusto, who replaced Dimarco against Napoli and provided an assist, is expected to start at left-wing back for the match at the Bernabeu. Dimarco participated in a training session Monday morning, but the team determined his condition was not sufficient for the upcoming European fixture.

• 1:05 PMYahoo Sports — Inter make final decision on Dimarco ahead of Real Madrid Champions League opener