Real Madrid’s Champions League title defence suffered a significant setback as AC Milan secured a convincing 3-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side struggled to find rhythm, with their usually potent attack stifled and defensive vulnerabilities exposed. Milan, meanwhile, demonstrated clinical efficiency, scoring three well-crafted goals.
The visitors began brightly, and Christian Pulisic’s pinpoint corner allowed Malick Thiaw to head home the opener. Kylian Mbappe almost responded immediately, but Mike Maignan’s superb save denied him.
Vinicius Jr equalised from the spot on 23 minutes after Emerson Royal’s foul on his Brazilian compatriot. However, Milan regained the lead before halftime as Alvaro Morata converted Rafael Leao’s snapshot rebound.
In the second half, Madrid’s increased attacking intent left them vulnerable on the counter. Leao exploited this, beating Lucas Vazquez and setting up Tijjani Reijnders for a decisive 3-1 lead.
Antonio Rudiger’s potential game-changer was ruled out for offside after a VAR review, compounding Madrid’s frustration.
This defeat marks Los Blancos’ second in the league phase, raising concerns about their European ambitions.
