Real Madrid 2-1 Inter Milan: Five key takeaways from UEFA Champions League 2026-27 match
Los Blancos open their new UCL campaign with a win.
In their first matchday in the UEFA Champions League league phase, Real Madrid beat Inter Milan 2-1.
After a deft pass from Brahim Díaz, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a clean finish. Federico Valverde doubled the lead by taking advantage of a huge mistake made by Inter goalkeeper Josep Martínez. Lautaro Martínez helps Carlos Augusto pull one back for the Nerazzurri, but it was not enough for visitors as they suffered a big blow.
Key takeaways from Champions League 2026-27 match
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5. Inter recorded 11 shots against Madrid in the first half without scoring a goal
Inter Milan had 11 shots in the first half against Real Madrid but failed to score, falling 2-0 after 45 minutes in their Champions League match. Inter Milan controlled around 70.2% of the ball in the first half. Despite Inter’s intense pressure and 11 shots, Real Madrid made the most of their few opportunities.
4. Defensive woes continue for Madrid
Despite winning the game, Madrid’s defence was the main talking point of the game. Critics have noted inconsistent defensive work rates from the forward line, and defensive numbers and ball retrieval rates have decreased in comparison to previous stages.
Despite the defeat, Inter dominated possession (59%) and produced a lot of offensive opportunities, slicing through a weak Real Madrid defence that found it difficult to stop transitions.
3. Inter caused problems but failed to capitalise on them
Inter Milan used a high 95% passing accuracy while controlling 59% of possession and significantly outpassing Madrid (504 passes to 351). Inter’s pressure paid off in the 77th minute when Carlos Augusto, assisted by Lautaro Martínez, put the Nerazzurri back within one goal. However, it was not enough to win the game, as they couldn’t score despite their exemplary effort.
2. Mbappé has scored the same number of Champions League goals as Raúl
Kylian Mbappé now has the same number of UEFA Champions League goals as Raúl González (71). Mbappé has now scored 71 goals in the UEFA tournament. Mbappé equals Real Madrid star Raúl’s all-time goal total, although in fewer games.
1. Mourinho start his Champions League campaign with a win
Jose Mourinho took on his former team, Inter Milan, in the Champions League to start his second Real Madrid stint. His team managed to secure a significant victory.
Due to Arda Güler, Eduardo Camavinga, and Bernardo Silva’s bans, Mourinho had to deploy a significantly altered midfield, using Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde out of position. However, they got the job done and secured a narrow 2-1 win.
Who scored for Real Madrid?
Mbappe and Valverde.
Who won the game?
Madrid won the game 2-1.
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