Real Madrid’s difficult start to the season continued as Carlo Ancelotti’s men suffered their second defeat in four Champions League matches, losing 3-1 to AC Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ancelotti’s reunion with his former club brought no consolation, as Milan put in a disciplined performance to secure victory.

The visitors took the lead in the 12th minute, with a Christian Pulisic corner met powerfully by Malick Thiaw, who headed the ball into the net to give Milan a dream start. Real Madrid responded soon after, with Vinicius Junior equalizing from the penalty spot. The Brazilian won the penalty himself, causing Emerson Royal to foul before confidently converting to make it 1-1.

Despite Madrid’s quick response, Milan regained control before the break. Alvaro Morata, facing his former club, capitalized on a rebound after Andriy Lunin had parried Rafael Leao’s first attempt, allowing Morata to head home and put the visitors 2-1 ahead at mid -time.

Milan further increased their lead in the 73rd minute. Leao, who was instrumental throughout the match, broke through Madrid’s defense with a strong run down the wing, delivering a precise cross to Tijjani Reijnders, who went unmarked in the box. Reijnders seized the opportunity by passing Lunin to make it 3-1.

Real Madrid’s struggles continued, with Antonio Rudiger’s late effort ruled out by VAR for offside, quashing any hopes of a late comeback. The defeat marked a second consecutive setback for Ancelotti’s side, following a dispiriting 4-0 loss to Barcelona in the Clasico.