Champions League: Mbappe, Haaland Shine As Real Madrid, Man City Win
Real Madrid opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday night, while Manchester City also secured three points.
Kylian Mbappe put Madrid ahead in the 14th minute, giving the Spanish champions an early advantage at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The goal took Mbappe’s Champions League tally to 71, moving him level with Real Madrid great Raul Gonzalez on the competition’s scoring chart.
Federico Valverde extended Madrid’s advantage before the interval, leaving Inter with a difficult task heading into the second half.
Carlos Augustus reduced the deficit for the Italian side after the restart, but Madrid held on to claim victory.
The result gives Real Madrid an encouraging start as they begin their latest European campaign with ambitions of challenging for another Champions League title.
Manchester City also made a winning start, defeating FC Porto as Erling Haaland continued his impressive goalscoring form.
The Norwegian striker scored twice to help Pep Guardiola’s side overcome the Portuguese club and begin their European campaign on a positive note.
City entered the competition among the leading contenders after years of consistent performances in Europe, including their Champions League triumph in 2023.
Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund defeated Villarreal 3-1 to collect an important opening-round victory.
Real Betis also claimed a 3-2 away win against Lille in another entertaining encounter.
Aston Villa completed the night’s other notable victories, beating Club Brugge 3-2 away from home.
The opening fixtures have already produced goals, close contests and strong performances from several of Europe’s biggest clubs, setting the tone for another competitive Champions League campaign.
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