Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid began their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over his former club Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.
The 15-time European champions made the most of two defensive mistakes to establish a two-goal lead in the first half, with Kylian Mbappe opening the scoring before Fede Valverde doubled the advantage.
Inter responded after the break when Carlos Augusto fired home from a Lautaro Martinez cross, setting up a tense final spell. However, Real Madrid held firm as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced several crucial saves to preserve the victory.
The result marked an emotional occasion for Mourinho, who had guided Inter Milan to Champions League glory in 2010 at the same stadium. That triumph remains the last time Mourinho or Inter lifted the European title.
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Mourinho returned to Real Madrid after two seasons without a major trophy and a series of disappointing European campaigns. His side responded positively to their recent La Liga defeat against Real Betis, producing an entertaining performance despite moments of vulnerability.
Real Madrid took control in the 14th minute after Curtis Jones’ misplaced pass left Yann Bisseck under pressure. Brahim Diaz seized possession and released Mbappe, who calmly finished to put the hosts ahead.
Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez then gifted Madrid their second goal. After hesitating in possession, he was challenged by Valverde, who won the ball and sent it into the net.
Madrid had opportunities to extend their lead before half-time, but Martinez redeemed himself with a remarkable double save. He first denied Mbappe before somehow blocking Jude Bellingham’s close-range effort.
Inter continued to threaten after the interval, with Courtois making another important stop to keep out Alessandro Bastoni’s low effort.
The visitors eventually found a way through in the 77th minute. Lautaro Martinez delivered the ball across the box, allowing Carlos Augusto to unleash a powerful finish beyond Courtois.
The late pressure forced Madrid to defend deep, but Courtois once again came to the rescue, pushing away a deflected attempt from Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Valverde was named player of the match, although the Uruguay midfielder was quick to praise his goalkeeper.
“I think he saved us today; he produced an incredible performance, so I think this is his prize too,” Valverde said.
The victory gives Mourinho an important early boost as Real Madrid begin their European campaign with three points, while Inter Milan will be left to reflect on costly defensive errors and missed chances.
