InterSummary
Generated byInter arrive at a significant moment in their season, carrying genuine momentum into a Champions League opener against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu that will test both their ambition and their depth. The 3-2 comeback win over Napoli in Serie A last weekend was exactly the kind of result that builds belief, with Lautaro Martinez scoring twice to turn a two-goal deficit into three points. Sitting second in the Serie A table on nine points after three games, Chivu's side are in strong early-season form.
The concern heading into Tuesday's match is the absence of Federico Dimarco. The left-sided defender picked up a knee injury against Napoli and, despite an attempted recovery, was left out of the squad for Madrid entirely. Carlos Augusto steps in on the left, while the confirmed lineup also sees Pavard start in defence and Jones earn a place in midfield ahead of Akanji and Zielinski. It is a reshaped side, but one Chivu appears confident in.
Adding to the occasion is the presence of Jose Mourinho in the opposing dugout. The Portuguese manager, who led Inter to the 2010 Champions League title at this very stadium, now coaches Real Madrid. Chivu, who played under Mourinho during that era, has spoken about their relationship ahead of the game. For Inter, the reunion is a backdrop to a match that could set the tone for their entire European campaign.
