Real Madrid 2–1 Olympique de Marseille: Mbappé's Brace Secures Comeback Victory

In a thrilling opening match of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League group stage, Real Madrid overcame Olympique de Marseille 2–1 at the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite being reduced to 10 men and trailing early, Madrid showcased resilience, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice from the penalty spot to seal the comeback victory.

Real Madrid 2–1 Olympique de Marseille: Mbappé's Brace Secures Comeback Victory

Match Recap

Marseille Takes the Lead

The match began with intensity, and in the 22nd minute, Timothy Weah capitalized on a defensive error by Arda Güler. Weah received a pass from Mason Greenwood and fired a powerful shot past Thibaut Courtois, giving Marseille a 1–0 lead. The goal stunned the home crowd and set the tone for an exciting encounter.

Real Madrid Responds

Real Madrid quickly responded. In the 29th minute, Rodrygo was fouled in the box by Marseille's Geoffrey Kondogbia, resulting in a penalty for Madrid. Mbappé stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick, leveling the score at 1–1.

Controversial Red Card

The match took a dramatic turn in the 63rd minute when Real Madrid's captain, Dani Carvajal, was shown a red card for head-butting Marseille goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli during a corner kick. The decision was met with controversy, but Madrid was forced to play with 10 men for the remainder of the match.

Mbappé Seals the Win

Despite being a man down, Real Madrid continued to press forward. In the 87th minute, a handball by Marseille's Facundo Medina inside the penalty area led to another penalty for Madrid. Mbappé once again took responsibility and converted the penalty, giving Madrid a 2–1 lead and securing the victory.

Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid's Strategy

Manager Xabi Alonso employed a high-pressing game, aiming to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Madrid maintained their attacking intent, with Mbappé's clinical finishing proving decisive.

Marseille's Approach

Under coach Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille adopted a counter-attacking strategy, exploiting spaces left by Madrid's high defensive line. Weah's early goal was a testament to their effective counter-attacking play.

Match Statistics

• Possession: Real Madrid 58% – Marseille 42%

• Shots on Target: Real Madrid 6 – Marseille 3

• Corners: Real Madrid 5 – Marseille 4

• Pass Accuracy: Real Madrid 85% – Marseille 79%

Player Highlights

• Kylian Mbappé: Scored both of Madrid's goals, demonstrating composure and precision from the penalty spot.

• Álvaro Carreras: Provided stability in defense and contributed to the attack, earning a high rating for his performance.

• Timothy Weah: Opened the scoring for Marseille with a powerful strike, showcasing his attacking prowess.

Final Thoughts

Real Madrid's 2–1 victory over Olympique de Marseille highlighted their resilience and determination. Despite the challenges faced during the match, including the red card and early goal conceded, Madrid's ability to recover and secure the win underscores their strength in European competition. The performance sets a positive tone for the remainder of the Champions League group stage.