Champions League opener sees Real Madrid edge Inter, Haaland powers City past Porto

Real Madrid secured a 2‑1 victory over Inter Milan at the Bernabeu, while Manchester City overcame Portuguese champions Porto 2‑0, marking a strong start for the defending champions in this season’s Champions League.

Opening night results

Returning manager Jose Mourinho faced his former side that lifted the trophy in 2010, and his team took the lead midway through the first half after a defensive error by Inter’s Yann Bisseck allowed Kylian Mbappe to score his 71st Champions League goal, equalling the tally of club legend Raul.

The hosts doubled the advantage when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez attempted to block a low ball from Fede Valverde inside his own six‑yard box, only for the Uruguayan to pounce and finish.

In the Premier League, Aston Villa rebounded from a slow start by beating Belgian champions Club Brugge 3‑2 away, with new signing John McGinn opening the scoring and Emiliano Buendia adding a second before half‑time.

Borussia Dortmund kicked off their campaign with a 3‑2 home win over Villarreal, thanks to a brace and a penalty from Serhou Guirassy, who also inadvertently scored an own goal after a rebound off Gregor Kobel.

Spanish side Real Betis claimed a dramatic 3‑2 victory against Lille in France, with Irish forward Troy Parrott netting the winner after the French side were reduced to ten men when Ethan Mbappe was sent off.

Greek champions AEK Athens secured a narrow 1‑0 win over Austrian title‑holders LASK, courtesy of a free‑kick from Razvan Marin.

Implications and upcoming fixtures

Madrid’s next group‑stage clash will be at home against reigning champions Paris Saint‑Germain, a test that could cement their status as early favourites. City will host PSG in their second match, looking to maintain momentum after Erling Haaland’s 59th Champions League goal in as many appearances, supplied by a cross from Enzo Fernandez.

Villa will aim to carry their confidence into the Premier League, while Dortmund will look to build on their attacking display ahead of a tough group featuring Bayern Munich. Betis, having returned to the competition after a 21‑year hiatus, will hope their comeback form continues.

With several big‑name clubs already posting wins, the opening night has set a high‑octane tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested Champions League season.