Jakarta, ThedailyID — Inter Milan coach Christian Chivu is determined to end his team’s 59-year wait for a victory at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu when the two sides meet in the opening matchday of the Champions League.
Inter face a difficult start to their European campaign as they travel to the home of the most successful club in Champions League history.
Inter have won only once in nine previous matches at the Bernabeu. The other eight games ended in defeat.
“Playing here is never easy. Inter have not beaten Real in the Bernabeu for 59 years. We have to show determination and character,” Chivu said on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, as quoted by the official Champions League website, Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
Chivu also wants Inter to play aggressively despite Real Madrid’s quality.
“We want to be dominant in this arena. There is no perfect way to face Real Madrid because they have many players who can always make a difference,” he said.
The Bernabeu also holds special memories for Chivu. He lifted the Champions League trophy with Inter at the stadium in 2010.
This time, however, Chivu will face Jose Mourinho, the coach who guided Inter to that historic Champions League title.
“Playing here is always an honor. Now the stadium looks even more beautiful than before and more modern,” Chivu said.
He also reflected on his relationship with Mourinho, who played an important role during his time at Inter.
“2010 was truly incredible. Jose Mourinho is a special person I have known. He helped me through difficult situations in my life, and I will certainly never forget him,” Chivu said.
Inter will now look to turn their history at the Bernabeu around. A victory would not only provide a strong start to their Champions League campaign but also end one of the club’s longest winless runs at Real Madrid’s home ground.
