Real Madrid staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Marseille 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in their UEFA Champions League opener, with French superstar Kylian Mbappe scoring both goals despite Dani Carvajal being sent off in the 72nd minute.
Marseille Strike Early
Marseille took an early lead through Timothy Weah, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from Mason Greenwood to slot past Thibaut Courtois. The visitors looked set to claim a famous win at the Bernabeu, but a controversial handball by Facundo Medina in the box gave Real Madrid a lifeline.
Mbappe Delivers for Madrid
Mbappe stepped up to convert the first penalty before halftime, leveling the score. After Carvajal’s dismissal reduced Madrid to ten men, the French forward calmly dispatched a second penalty to secure the win. This brace marked Mbappe’s 50th goal in just 64 appearances for Real Madrid, making him the fastest Madrid player to reach this milestone since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2010.
“For me, it’s a penalty, but I understand there are people who don’t think so. We’re all lost with this rule,” Mbappe said after the match.
Challenges for Xabi Alonso’s Side
Madrid coach Xabi Alonso faced setbacks early in his first European match in charge. Trent Alexander-Arnold limped off after just three minutes, forcing Carvajal into an unexpected start. Alonso also rotated his squad, resting Vinicius Junior and keeping Jude Bellingham on the bench following shoulder surgery. Youngster Franco Mastantuono became Real’s youngest-ever Champions League starter at 18 years and 33 days.
Despite the adversity, Los Blancos managed to grind out the three points, demonstrating their resilience and depth.
Key Moments
- Timothy Weah gives Marseille an early lead.
- Mbappe converts first penalty to equalize.
- Dani Carvajal receives red card in the 72nd minute.
- Mbappe scores second penalty to complete the comeback.
- Real Madrid remain perfect across all competitions with five wins from five games.
Post-Match Reactions
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praised the team’s determination:
“The two goals came from penalties, and our performance deserved more than that… it made the game tougher for us, but it was a good start.”
Alonso also highlighted Mbappe’s form:
“He’s in a good moment both personally and in a footballing sense, and I’m happy to be working with him.”
Implications
The win reinforces Real Madrid’s strong start to the season under Alonso and demonstrates their ability to overcome adversity, even with a numerical disadvantage. Mbappe’s brilliance continues to be pivotal for Los Blancos in Europe.
