The Santiago Bernabéu once again hosted the annual Corazón Classic Match, as Real Madrid Legends defeated Inter Legends 2-1 in a charity event benefiting the Real Madrid Foundation. Under this year’s theme, “A Match with the Soul of Childhood,” the proceeds will support more than 1,400 Foundation projects across over 100 countries.
A crowd filled with families enjoyed a nostalgic morning featuring 44 former players from both clubs. Real Madrid favorites Pepe, Míchel Salgado, José Amavisca, Claude
Makelele, and Christian Karembeu received some of the loudest ovations of the day, while former Madrid players Esteban Cambiasso and Borja Valero were warmly welcomed by the Bernabéu faithful despite representing Inter.
Pepe was one of the standout performers. The Portuguese defender looked remarkably sharp throughout the match, breaking up attacks early and nearly scoring with a header shortly after halftime. His influence grew even further after moving into midfield in the second half, where his leadership and intensity helped drive Madrid’s comeback. He eventually equalized in the 69th minute with a powerful header before leaving the pitch to a standing ovation late in the match.
Inter took the lead shortly before halftime through Hernanes, who converted on the rebound after Koke Contreras had initially saved his penalty. Contreras was one of Madrid’s best performers in the opening half, producing several impressive saves to keep his side in the contest.
The momentum shifted after the break as Real Madrid’s veterans controlled possession and created more dangerous opportunities. Pepe’s equalizer sparked the turnaround, and seven minutes later Javier Barral headed home the winner to complete the comeback and secure a 2-1 victory.
The result marked a return to winning ways for the Real Madrid Legends after a defeat to Porto in 2024 and a draw against Borussia Dortmund in 2025, while also avenging the club’s previous Corazón Classic stalemate against Inter in 2014.
