Real Madrid began their Champions League campaign with a victory, though the manner in which they secured the three points against Inter might not fully satisfy coach Jose Mourinho. The home side took a two-goal lead after just 23 minutes through Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde, but spent most of the second half under constant pressure from the visiting team.

Federico Valverde celebrates with Kylian Mbappe (number 10) after scoring Real's second goal in the Champions League match against Inter Milan at the Bernabeu stadium, Madrid, Spain, 8/9/2026. Photo: AP

At the Bernabeu, Inter started more proactively, maintaining good possession and consistently seeking to exploit spaces behind Real's defense. They created the first dangerous opportunity in the 3rd minute when Lautaro Martinez passed to Marcus Thuram, whose one-touch shot inside the penalty area was swiftly saved by Thibaut Courtois, who pushed the ball past the post.

Real had not yet established their usual rhythm when they unexpectedly took the lead due to an individual error from their opponent. In the 14th minute, Curtis Jones mishandled the ball in midfield. Brahim Diaz immediately seized possession and threaded a pass to Mbappe. The French forward broke free and quickly shot with his right foot through the legs of goalkeeper Josep Martinez, opening the scoring.

The goal ignited the Bernabeu. Before this, home fans had begun to whistle due to Real's unconvincing play and lack of clear chances. However, a single Inter mistake changed the atmosphere. Chants of "Mbappe" echoed throughout the stadium as the French forward turned towards the stands and shouted "Vamos" in celebration.

This goal marked Mbappe's 71st in the Champions League, equaling Real legend Raul's record and placing him fifth on the list of all-time top scorers in the competition.