Real Madrid opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan, but the result masked a performance that highlighted several concerns for manager José Mourinho.

Madrid made the most of Inter’s defensive errors to establish a two-goal lead, with Kylian Mbappé and Federico Valverde finding the net. Inter responded through Carlos Augusto in the second half and finished the match with enough control and attacking pressure to make the closing stages uncomfortable for the home side.

For Mourinho, the three points were the immediate priority. But if Real Madrid are to challenge for the Champions League title, Tuesday’s performance suggested that significant improvement will be required.

Inter Controlled Much of the First Half

The scoreline did not reflect the balance of play during large portions of the opening half.

Inter controlled possession and repeatedly moved the ball into dangerous areas, while Madrid struggled to establish consistent control in midfield. The Italian side's dominance was particularly evident in their ability to progress the ball into the attacking third.

Madrid, however, were more efficient when opportunities appeared.

Mbappé opened the scoring after capitalising on pressure applied to Inter defender Yann Bisseck. Brahim Díaz supplied the final pass before the French forward finished the move.

Valverde then doubled Madrid’s advantage after another mistake, this time involving Inter goalkeeper Josep Martínez.

Courtois Keeps Madrid Ahead

Inter's inability to convert their opportunities ultimately proved decisive.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced a series of important saves, including seven in total, as Inter repeatedly threatened.

Carlos Augusto eventually pulled one goal back in the 77th minute, setting up a tense finish.

Madrid survived, but the match reinforced a concern that could become significant against stronger opponents: the team cannot expect Courtois to repeatedly compensate for defensive and midfield weaknesses in major European games.

Midfield Balance Remains a Concern

Madrid were also missing Arda Güler through suspension. The youngster has been among the team's most influential performers early in the season.

Bernardo Silva was another absence, with the midfielder expected to provide greater control and composure in possession.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was used in a central midfield role, but the experiment did not provide the authority Madrid needed in the first half.

The lack of midfield control allowed Inter to dictate the rhythm for long periods and forced Madrid to rely heavily on individual quality.

Mbappé Still Madrid’s Biggest Weapon

Despite the team's broader issues, Mbappé remains a decisive attacking force.

The France international scored his 15th Champions League goal of last season's campaign and again demonstrated how quickly he can turn defensive pressure into a scoring opportunity.

His ability to create and finish chances gives Mourinho a significant advantage, particularly in matches where Madrid do not dominate possession.

But the team's dependence on individual brilliance could become problematic as the Champions League progresses.

Mourinho Wants Results First

Mourinho has made it clear that winning matters more to him than producing attractive football without securing points.

The victory over Inter therefore gives him a positive starting point in the competition. Madrid have three points on the board and have defeated a major European opponent.

Yet the manager's larger task is to develop an identity that allows the team to control matches rather than simply survive them.

More Than a Scoreline Will Be Needed

Real Madrid have the players to compete with Europe's strongest sides, but Tuesday's performance showed that talent alone may not be enough.

The defence must become more reliable, midfield control needs to improve and the team will have to reduce its dependence on Courtois and Mbappé.

With the Champions League only beginning, there is time for Mourinho to address those weaknesses. But if Real Madrid reproduce the same imbalance against the competition's strongest teams, victories will become much harder to secure.

Arsenal Lead the Way in UEFA Champions League 2025-26

The UEFA Champions League 2025-26 delivered another dramatic night of football as Arsenal became the first team to secure qualification for the last 16, while European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City suffered unexpected defeats. From Milan to Madrid, the results highlighted why this season’s Champions League is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent years.

At the San Siro on January 21, Arsenal produced a statement performance, defeating last season’s finalists Inter Milan 3-1. Mikel Arteta’s side not only maintained their perfect winning run but also sent a clear message to the rest of Europe.

Arsenal vs Inter Milan: Arteta’s Side Make History

Arsenal’s victory over Inter Milan showcased their growing maturity on the European stage. Gabriel Jesus was the star of the night, scoring twice in the 10th and 31st minutes, while Viktor Gyökeres added a late goal in the 84th minute to seal the win.

Inter briefly threatened a comeback through Petar Sucic’s 18th-minute strike, but Arsenal’s control and composure stood out. With seven wins from seven matches, the Gunners now sit comfortably at the top of the table, becoming the first club to confirm a last-16 berth in the UEFA Champions League 2025-26.

Expert View:

Former players turned pundits have praised Arsenal’s balance between youth and experience, calling them “one of the most complete teams in Europe right now.”

Real Madrid vs Monaco: Mbappe Equals Ronaldo’s Record

If Arsenal impressed in Italy, Real Madrid dazzled in Spain. The 15-time champions thrashed AS Monaco 6-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Kylian Mbappé stealing the headlines.

Mbappé’s early brace took his group-stage tally to 11 goals, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record from the 2015-16 season. Goals from Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, Franco Mastantuono, and a Monaco own goal completed a ruthless display. The win lifted Real Madrid to second place in the standings, reinforcing their status as title favourites.

PSG and Manchester City Suffer Shock Defeats

In contrast, defending champions PSG endured a surprising 1-2 loss to Sporting CP. Colombian forward Luis Suárez struck twice late in the match, stunning the French giants and reigniting questions about PSG’s defensive consistency.

Manchester City also had a night to forget, losing 1-3 away to Norway’s Bodo/Glimt. Kasper Høgh’s quick-fire brace and Rodri’s red card compounded Pep Guardiola’s misery, highlighting how unforgiving the Champions League can be.

Why These Results Matter Now

As the group stage nears its decisive phase, these results could reshape the knockout picture. Arsenal’s early qualification allows squad rotation, while PSG and City now face added pressure to avoid the playoff route.

Key Takeaways for Fans:

Arsenal look genuine contenders, not just qualifiers.

Real Madrid’s attack is peaking at the right time.

Big names like PSG and City cannot afford complacency.

The UEFA Champions League 2025-26 continues to deliver high drama, proving once again that reputation alone guarantees nothing on Europe’s biggest stage.