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

Real Madrid opened its 2026-27 Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan at the Bernabeu on Tuesday. Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde scored first-half goals to provide the margin of victory, though the team struggled to maintain control after the break. Valverde credited goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with preserving the win after a difficult second half. Manager Jose Mourinho reportedly instructed his players to retain possession and remain calm during his halftime team talk, but the squad failed to execute those adjustments consistently. This result serves as a rebound for Real Madrid following a recent loss to Real Betis in domestic play. The team now shifts focus to improving its tactical patience in upcoming matches.

• 6:40 AMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid captain praises Courtois but admits team played ‘poor second half’ against Inter Milan
• 6:35 AMYahoo Sports — Federico Valverde makes honest Real Madrid admission after Inter win: “Courtois saved us”