Mbappe Scores Twice as Real Madrid Beat Marseille 2-1

In a thrilling Champions League group stage opener, Real Madrid managed to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille at the Santiago Bernabeu, thanks to Kylian Mbappe, who scored two crucial penalties. The match was full of drama, including an early injury, moments of brilliance, and late controversies that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Madrid also had to play with ten men after their captain, Dani Carvajal, was sent off in the final stages of the game.

Early Setback: Alexander-Arnold Injured

The match started with excitement but soon brought worries for Real Madrid. Just three minutes after the kickoff, coach Xabi Alonso had to make an early substitution when Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Madrid fullback, suffered a leg injury. This unexpected injury forced the team to adjust their strategy early in the game.

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Early Chances for Both Teams

From the beginning, Madrid looked strong and eager to take control. Mbappe almost gave his team a spectacular start with a bicycle kick inside the penalty box, but the ball narrowly went wide of the goal. Marseille, on the other hand, also created chances. Franco Mastantuono struck a low shot that hit the post after skillfully getting past two defenders.

However, it was the Marseille goalkeeper, Geronimo Rulli, who stood out in the first half. Rulli made ten important saves, including a brilliant one-handed stop to deny Mbappe from close range. His performance kept Marseille in the game and frustrated the home fans at the Bernabeu.

Marseille Take the Lead

The visitors were the first to score in the 22nd minute. The goal came from a mistake by Arda Guler, who lost the ball to Mason Greenwood. Greenwood passed quickly to Timothy Weah, who ran past the Madrid defenders and fired a powerful shot past Thibaut Courtois, giving Marseille an early lead.

The goal shocked the home fans, but Madrid responded quickly.

Mbappe Equalizes for Madrid

Just seven minutes later, Real Madrid drew level. Geoffrey Kondogbia of Marseille accidentally tripped Rodrygo inside the penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty. Mbappe calmly converted the spot-kick, giving 15-time European champions Real Madrid their equalizer and reigniting the crowd’s energy.

Second Half: Madrid Dominates but Struggles

After halftime, Madrid controlled possession and tried to create more chances, but Marseille’s defense remained strong. Despite dominating the ball, Madrid struggled to threaten the goal. Mbappe remained the main spark for the team, hitting the crossbar with a curling shot from the edge of the box in the 49th minute.

Marseille held firm, making it difficult for Madrid to take the lead despite having most of the possession.

Turning Point: Carvajal Sent Off

The match took a dramatic turn in the 72nd minute. Dani Carvajal, Madrid’s captain, was involved in a heated altercation with Marseille goalkeeper Rulli and was shown a red card for head-butting. This left Real Madrid with only ten men for the remaining part of the match, making their task even more challenging.

Despite the disadvantage, the team continued to push forward, showing great resilience and determination.

Late Drama: Mbappe’s Second Penalty

The decisive moment came in the 87th minute. Vinicius Jr, who had come on as a substitute, made a brilliant run down the wing. His shot deflected off Facundo Medina’s boot and hit the defender’s outstretched hand inside the penalty area. The referee awarded a second penalty, giving Mbappe a chance to score again.

Mbappe stepped up confidently and converted the penalty, securing a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid. His performance highlighted his composure under pressure and ability to deliver in critical moments.

Post-Match Reactions

Mbappe reflected on the challenging match, saying,

"It was a difficult night because we were down to ten men, but we showed our Champions League spirit at the Santiago Bernabeu. We know we can win here against anyone, and we're happy for the victory."

He also commented on the second penalty, admitting some confusion about the rules:

"Analysing handballs is very complicated. For me, it was a penalty, but I understand that some people don’t think so. They said it was a penalty, I took it, and I scored."

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi was unhappy with the referee’s decision to award the late penalty:

"The second penalty is disgraceful. It wasn’t a penalty. I would have said so even if it had been in my team’s favor. It was never a penalty."

He also praised his team’s experience playing at the Bernabeu:

"These matches help Marseille get used to big stadiums. Playing here gives the players ambition and helps them see themselves as a big club in the future."

Key Takeaways

• Kylian Mbappe was the hero for Real Madrid, scoring both penalties.

• Dani Carvajal’s red card forced Madrid to play with ten men but did not stop them from winning.

• Geronimo Rulli, Marseille’s goalkeeper, had a standout performance in the first half.

• Early injuries and defensive errors made the match unpredictable and exciting.

• Controversial referee decisions added drama to the final stages.

Real Madrid started their Champions League campaign with a memorable victory, showing resilience, skill, and determination. Despite being reduced to ten men, the team showed true spirit and relied on Mbappe’s brilliance to secure the win. Marseille, though unlucky with the late penalty, also showed they could compete at the highest level and will look to improve in their upcoming matches.

The Santiago Bernabeu witnessed a classic European night filled with drama, skill, and unforgettable moments—a perfect start to the Champions League season for both teams.