Inter continental difficulties evident after losing 6 of last 7 in the Champions League | OneFootball

Inter’s impressive domestic form under Cristian Chivu continues to contrast sharply with their ongoing European struggles, highlighted by a troubling record of six defeats in their last seven Champions League fixtures following Tuesday’s 2-1 loss against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

While Simone Inzaghi guided the Nerazzurri to two European finals over three seasons, losing just nine of 44 matches, Chivu has suffered six defeats in his opening 11 Champions League outings, conceding an average of two goals per game.

MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 08: Cristian Chivu, Manager of Internazionale, looks on before the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 08, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Inter struggles laid bare in defeat to Real Madrid

Despite dominating ball possession in Madrid, Inter allowed the hosts at least six clear-cut opportunities, relying on goalkeeper Josep Martínez to prevent a significantly heavier scoreline, despite the Spaniard’s own mistake.

Writing for Tuttosport, journalist Stefano Pasquino noted that while Chivu’s expansive tactical system succeeds in Serie A, where superior individual quality helped fuel a dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Napoli, it exposes severe defensive frailties against elite European opposition.

Unlike Inzaghi’s side, which excelled at sitting deep and managing defensive transitions, Chivu’s squad lacks structural balance when out of possession. Unless the Romanian tactician addresses these recurring defensive vulnerabilities, Inter risk remaining short of Europe’s top tier.