The hosts established a commanding lead during a frantic first half, with Kylian Mbappe and Fede Valverde finding the net after Inter errors. Although Carlos Augusto pulled a goal back for the Italian side in the 77th minute, Madrid’s defence held firm under significant pressure, anchored by a series of vital saves from goalkeeper
Capitalising on Defensive Errors
The match began with Inter Milan showing early aggression, forcing Courtois into action twice during the opening exchanges. However, the visitors were undone by their own mistakes in the 14th minute. A misplaced pass from Curtis Jones put Yann Bisseck under immediate pressure, allowing Brahim Diaz to intercept and feed Mbappe, who clinically opened the scoring.
Inter’s misfortune continued shortly after when goalkeeper Josep Martinez hesitated in possession. Fede Valverde successfully closed down the keeper, winning the ball and slotting it into the net to double the advantage. Despite the deficit, Inter remained a threat, with Josep Martinez recovering from his error to produce a remarkable save against Jude Bellingham, while Mbappe also saw a low effort denied as the visitors struggled to contain Madrid’s counter-attacks.
Courtois Secures the Result
As the match progressed, the focus shifted to the performance of Thibaut Courtois, who was making his 100th appearance in the competition. The Belgian goalkeeper repeatedly frustrated the Inter attack, most notably pushing away a low drive from Alessandro Bastoni before the break. His presence proved decisive as the game entered its final stages.
Inter finally found a way through in the 77th minute when Lautaro Martinez provided the cross for Carlos Augusto to power home, setting up a tense finish. Despite the late surge, Courtois denied a deflected Henrikh Mkhitaryan effort to preserve the win. Reflecting on the chaotic nature of the contest, Mourinho noted that the game could easily have ended with a much higher scoreline, while Inter captain Lautaro Martinez admitted that his side’s failure to convert their numerous chances ultimately cost them the result.
