Real Madrid - Inter

Kylian Mbappe spearheads a potent Real Madrid attack as the Spanish giants welcome Inter to Estadio Bernabeu on 8 September 2026 for their Champions League matchday 1 encounter. Despite a recent narrow league defeat to Real Betis, the hosts have shown formidable scoring form earlier this season, notably putting four goals past both Malaga and Real Sociedad. The expected XI, featuring Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, remains dangerous, though the team must navigate the absences of suspended trio Arda Guler, Eduardo Camavinga, and Bernardo Silva, alongside the injured Endrick.

Inter arrive in strong spirits after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Napoli, extending their perfect start to the domestic campaign. With Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram leading the line, the visitors possess the clinical edge required to challenge at this level, even with Federico Dimarco sidelined. History favors the hosts, who secured a 2-0 victory in their last Champions League meeting on 7 December 2021, but Inter’s current momentum suggests a stern test for the Madrid defense.