New rule delays Carreras' entry against Inter

Reports have revealed the reason for Álvaro Carreras' delayed entry onto the pitch during Real Madrid's match against Inter in the first round of the group stage of the UEFA Champions League at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

José Mourinho made a substitution, bringing on Álvaro Carreras for Vinicius Junior in the 86th minute, but the Brazilian's exit took over 10 seconds. This prompted referee Michael Oliver to apply the new amendment to the substitution rules, aimed at curbing time-wasting attempts.

According to the decision, Álvaro Carreras was not allowed to enter the pitch immediately, and Real Madrid had to continue playing with ten men temporarily, until a minute passed before the referee agreed to let Carreras onto the field.

This temporary numerical disadvantage almost cost Real Madrid dearly, as Inter took advantage of the extra space and launched a dangerous attack on the Spanish team's goal, but Thibaut Courtois saved the situation at the crucial moment.

The Belgian goalkeeper intervened with a brilliant save in front of Henrikh Mkhitaryan's shot, denying Inter the chance to exploit their temporary numerical advantage and preserving Real Madrid's goal, in a moment that could have changed the course of the match.

The incident highlights the impact of the new football rule changes aimed at speeding up substitutions and limiting attempts to waste time when players leave the pitch.