Real Madrid began their Champions League title defense in thrilling fashion, securing a hard-fought 3-1 victory against a determined Stuttgart side at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday night. Late goals from Antonio Ruediger and teenage sensation Endrick ensured the reigning champions started their campaign with three crucial points.
Despite the scoreline, Stuttgart dominated large parts of the game and were arguably the better side for long stretches. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was instrumental in keeping his team afloat, making a series of key saves to deny the German club. Stuttgart’s relentless attack kept the home side on their toes throughout the match.
Real Madrid took the lead just seconds into the second half through a well-executed counterattack. Brazilian winger Rodrygo delivered a pinpoint cross for star forward Kylian Mbappe, who coolly slotted home from close range. The goal gave Madrid a much-needed advantage, but Stuttgart continued to push forward with dangerous intent.
Stuttgart’s persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Deniz Undav headed in a powerful equalizer, silencing the Bernabeu crowd. However, Real Madrid responded with resilience. In the 83rd minute, Luka Modric swung in a perfect corner that met Antonio Ruediger, who rose high to head the ball past the Stuttgart goalkeeper, restoring Madrid’s lead.
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The game was sealed deep into added time by 18-year-old substitute Endrick, who fired a spectacular long-range shot into the net, leaving the Stuttgart defense stunned. The young Brazilian’s first Champions League goal was the perfect end to an intense night of football.
Courtois, who was named player of the match, acknowledged the challenge Stuttgart posed. “Those who watch Stuttgart closely know they are an attacking side that scores a lot, but they can be caught off guard. I’m glad we managed to get the win,” Courtois told Movistar Plus. “They pressed hard, and we suffered at times, but we responded well after the equalizer, and winning is crucial in this new Champions League format.”
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faced a defensive dilemma going into the game. With David Alaba still recovering from an ACL tear and Eder Militao battling a leg muscle injury, Ancelotti was forced to deploy Dani Carvajal as a makeshift center-back. Stuttgart looked to exploit this weakness and came close to scoring on several occasions, but Courtois’ heroics kept them at bay.
