Carlo Ancelotti praises Real Madrid’s ability to “suffer” after last-gasp victory at Inter

Ancelotti started Thibaut Courtois in goal, behind a back four of Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Nacho and David Alaba. Fede Valverde joined Casemiro and Luka Modric in a midfield triumvirate, supporting a front three of Lucas Vazquez, Vinicius Junior and the red-hot Karim Benzema, captain for the evening.

It was two substitutes, however, that did the business in the end and got Madrid over the line at the death; new signing Eduardo Camavinga assisted Rodrygo, the club’s other Brazilian, in the 89th minute to secure a massive opening day win. It was a fine goal, evidence of the youthful talent Carletto has at his disposal.

“A very important victory,” he said in comments carried by Marca on the whistle. “A better second half than first half. We didn’t concede a goal thanks to Courtois in the first half. In the first half we were in a low block and we had to defend. We brought the ball out differently in the second half and we improved.

“With Rodrygo’s introduction we played more out wide, and that gave us options outside. I liked the game because we had to suffer and suffer while remaining compact. I liked that, knowing how to suffer and showing that the team has to sacrifice.”