Real Madrid began the defense of their UEFA Champions League title with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, extending their unbeaten home run in the competition to 14 games.
The match saw Stuttgart, back in Europe’s elite competition after a long absence, putting up a spirited performance against the 15-time champions.
Key Moments:
– Real Madrid broke the deadlock just 30 seconds into the second half. Kylian Mbappé tapped in his first Champions League goal for the club after Rodrygo’s assist, following a quick turnover.
– Stuttgart equalized in the 65th minute when an unmarked Jamie Leweling crossed for Deniz Undav to head home, sending the 4,000 travelling fans into celebrations.
– Antonio Rüdiger restored Real Madrid’s lead in the 86th minute, heading in from Luka Modrić’s corner against his former club.
– Substitute Endrick sealed the win on his Champions League debut, scoring on a counter-attack in stoppage time.
The first half saw Stuttgart threatening early, forcing three saves from Thibaut Courtois within the first 20 minutes. Real Madrid gradually gained control, with Mbappé testing Alexander Nübel twice.
A potential penalty for Real Madrid was overturned after a VAR review, when referee Halil Umut Meler determined there was no contact between Maximilian Mittelstädt and Rüdiger.
Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s manager, said, “Stuttgart showed they belong at this level. We had to work hard for this win, but that’s what you expect in the Champions League.”
Sebastian Hoeneß, Stuttgart’s coach, expressed pride in his team’s performance: “We gave the champions a real fight. This experience will be invaluable for our growth in the competition.”
The result puts Real Madrid at the top of their group, while Stuttgart will look to bounce back in their next Champions League fixture.
Man of the Match: Deniz Undav (VfB Stuttgart)
Real Madrid’s next Champions League match is away to Napoli, while Stuttgart will host Manchester United.
