Real Madrid secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Inter Milan in a thrilling Champions League encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu, marking José Mourinho’s return to the club he once led to glory. The match featured a staggering 37 shots, with both goalkeepers making a combined 13 remarkable saves, but it was Thibaut Courtois’s stunning 89th-minute stop from Henrikh Mkhitaryan that ultimately preserved Madrid’s lead.

Match Overview

Real Madrid took the lead in the first half with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Fede Valverde. Despite Inter’s dominance in possession and attempts, they struggled to convert their chances. Mourinho, reflecting on the match, remarked, “If he wasn’t voted man of the match tonight, he never will be,” referring to Courtois, who was instrumental in keeping Madrid ahead.

First Half Highlights

The opening goal came in the 14th minute when Mbappé capitalized on a defensive error from Inter. Valverde doubled the lead shortly after, scoring in the 23rd minute. Despite Madrid’s early success, they were outplayed for significant stretches, with Inter enjoying 65% of possession and creating numerous opportunities. However, they failed to find the back of the net, with Courtois making crucial saves to maintain Madrid’s advantage.

Second Half and Inter’s Response

Inter continued to press in the second half, and their persistence paid off when Carlos Augusto scored in the 77th minute, setting up a tense finish. Despite their efforts, including a flurry of shots and a late push for an equalizer, they could not breach Madrid’s defense again. The match concluded with Madrid holding on for a 2-1 victory, much to the frustration of the visiting side.

While Real Madrid celebrated their win, the performance raised questions about their midfield’s effectiveness, as they struggled to maintain control throughout the match. Jude Bellingham noted that he had missed “two sitters,” indicating that the scoreline could have been more comfortable for Madrid.

This match not only marked a significant moment for Mourinho but also set the tone for both teams in the Champions League campaign. For a detailed match report, visit The Guardian.