Real Madrid Triumphs Over Stuttgart 3-1 in UCL Opener

Real Madrid secured a 3-1 victory over VfB Stuttgart in their UEFA Champions League opener in Madrid. Despite early struggles, goals from Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger, and Endrick ensured their win. Stuttgart had early chances but fell short in the end.

Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, clinched a 3-1 win against VfB Stuttgart in their UEFA Champions League opener at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.

Despite facing difficulties throughout the match, Real Madrid managed to secure victory with goals from Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger, and a late strike from Endrick. Stuttgart started strong, with Thibaut Courtois making critical saves, and Deniz Undav hitting the bar in the 28th minute.

The game shifted dramatically after halftime. Aurelien Tchouameni set up Rodrygo, who assisted Mbappe for a close-range goal. Stuttgart leveled the score through Undav's header but Madrid regained control with a Rudiger header, and Endrick sealed the win in stoppage time, becoming the youngest Champions League scorer for the club.

This season introduces a new UCL format with 36 clubs competing in a league phase, replacing the traditional group stage. Each team will play eight matches, with outcomes significantly impacting league standings. The top eight advance directly to the round of 16, while teams placing 9th to 24th will enter a knockout play-off phase. The knockout stages begin in February, and the final is set for May 31, 2025, at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany.

(With inputs from agencies.)