Inter manager Cristian Chivu has expressed pride in his squad’s performance following their 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 opener at the Santiago Bernabeu on September 8, 2026. Despite the result, Chivu emphasized that he remains happy and optimistic about the team’s future, highlighting the courage they displayed against a formidable opponent.
The match saw Inter dominate possession for long stretches, holding 61 percent of the ball and completing nearly double the passes of their hosts. However, the game was ultimately decided by individual errors. A misplaced pass from Curtis Jones led to the opening goal by Kylian Mbappé, and goalkeeper Josep Martinez was later caught out of position, contributing to the final scoreline. Carlos Augusto managed to pull one goal back for the visitors following an assist from Lautaro Martinez.
Managerial Reflections and Team Character
- Match Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain.
- Date: September 08, 2026.
- Key Performance: Inter maintained 61% possession and superior passing volume.
- Managerial Stance: Chivu expressed no anger, focusing instead on the team’s resilience.
- Goalkeeper Performance: Josep Martinez recovered from an early error to make several high-level saves.
Addressing the media after the match, Chivu stated, “I am not angry at all, I am happy with the courage and character shown by my team. I am proud that we showed courage and didn’t come here trying to play for a point, instead we took the game to a team like Real Madrid.” He noted that while mistakes are an inherent part of the sport, the critical factor is how players respond to adversity.
Regarding the performance of goalkeeper Josep Martinez, Chivu defended his player against criticism, stating, “The most important thing is how you react to errors, and Pepo reacted like a goalkeeper of a high level, because he kept his head and made some great saves. It’s not just goalkeepers, any player on the pitch, it’s important how you react, keep your head up, rediscover your confidence, that is what interests me.”
Historical Context and Future Outlook
- Mourinho Reunion: Chivu and Jose Mourinho, who previously won the Champions League together, faced off as opposing managers.
- Emotional Connection: Chivu expressed deep personal respect for Mourinho, citing his support during difficult times.
- Recent Form: The loss followed a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Napoli in Serie A the previous weekend.
- Strategic Positives: Chivu highlighted the performance of his wingers, including Carlos Augusto, as a foundation for future confidence.
The encounter served as a reunion between Chivu and Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, with whom he shared a historic Champions League triumph during their time together at Inter. Chivu remarked, “I love Mourinho like crazy for what we did together, how he stood by me and my family during a difficult time.” Despite the loss, Chivu remains focused on the long-term development of his squad, viewing the performance at the Bernabeu as a significant step forward in their European campaign. The report also notes that but also made costly howlers that ultimately gifted two early goals to Real Madrid, the Nerazzurri dominated for long periods at the Bernabeu. The report also notes that (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images). The report also notes that there were big saves at both ends from Thibaut Courtois and Josep Martinez for the 2-1 result, although Carlos Augusto did eventually get one back on the Lautaro Martinez assist. The report also notes that trying to be dominant and keeping the initiative throughout, i’d say it was a good performance tonight. The report also notes that we knew that we’d need to allow them something in transition and the quality that they have in attack, but we stayed in the game to the very end, showed character and it was a good performance, mistakes happen. The report also notes that but this was too big an ask to repeat it against Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid, inter had fought back from 2-0 down to beat Napoli 3-2 in Serie A at the weekend. The report also notes that it was a reunion with Mourinho, who was the coach and Chivu a player when they won the Treble at Inter in 2010, speaking of which. The report also notes that he is a great man, I was so happy to hug him, and I wish him all the best for this new adventure.”.
