Inter Milan suffered a 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in their first group-stage game of the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League.
Despite having more of the possession, Inter failed to convert their chances and made costly mistakes at the back. Kylian Mbappe and Valverde ensured Chivu’s side paid for their mistake, with Thibaut Courtois ensuring Madrid take all three point.
Speaking after the match, Chivu was adamant that the final scoreline did not tell the whole story of the ninety minutes
“I’m not angry; I’m happy with the courage and personality we showed, and with the way the team overcame a difficult moment,” the former defender said in the club’s official website. “What matters to me is the reaction to certain mistakes, the body language, and how much you believe in what you’re doing. We tried to be dominant and execute our game plan successfully, which makes me optimistic about the future of this team.”
Lautaro Martinez controls the ball under pressure from Ibrahima Konate. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri coach was particularly pleased with the way his side maintained their identity against world-class opposition.
Chivu acknowledged that playing with such high intensity naturally carries risks, but he felt the trade-off was worth it for the development of his squad. “We knew about their quality and that we could make mistakes,” Chivu admitted. “We didn’t try to sit back and speculate; we went toe-to-toe with Real Madrid, and that’s the performance I’m taking away from this game.”
Aside the scoreline, Chivu was also able to come face-to-face with a manager he adores, Jose Mourinho.
The pair famously shared a historic period at San Siro, most notably securing their legendary treble achievements in the 2009-10 season.
Reflecting on the meeting, Chivu spoke warmly of the man who led him to Champions League glory over a decade ago. “I have enormous affection for Mourinho for everything we did together, even during a difficult period in my life, and for the way he conducted himself as a great man,” Chivu said. “It was a pleasure to see him again and embrace him, and I wish him all the best for this season.”
