Antonio Rudiger is chasing former club Stuttgart as Real Madrid begin their Champions League defense with victory

Real Madrid begin their Champions League title defense on Tuesday as they host Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabeu. It was a less convincing night for the 15-time champions, but they managed to escape with a 3-1 win.

It was an open first half in the Spanish capital, with both sides having good chances. However, none of them were taken, although it did not take much to open the scoring in the second period.

Less than 30 seconds after the end of the half-time interval, Rodrygo Goes set up Kylian Mbappe to score in his Champions League debut for Real Madrid. It was a dream moment for the Frenchman, and he could not have imagined an easier chance to open his account in Europe.

Real Madrid were buoyed by Mbappe's opener, but they ended up being pegged back 20 minutes later. A cross shot from inside the box it was driven home by Deniz Undavwhich left Thibaut Courtois with no chance.

In any case, Real Madrid should not be denied their victory, and the winner came at 83 minutes. Luka Modric's well-timed corner was headed home by Antonio Rudigerwhich was opposite his former club. They also managed a third in the dying stages, with Endrick Felipe scoring his second goal for the club.

It was far from convincing Real Madridbut the result is what matters. Carlo Ancelotti will be content with that.