Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille in the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 group stage, but the win came in dramatic fashion. Kylian Mbappé proved decisive once again, scoring two penalties to rescue Los Blancos after a tense evening at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Early Setback: Alexander-Arnold Injury

The night began with unexpected trouble for Real Madrid. Just five minutes in, Trent Alexander-Arnold suffered an injury and had to be substituted. Dani Carvajal replaced him, but his evening took a disastrous turn later when he was sent off in the 72nd minute for a second bookable offense.

The defensive shake-up disrupted Madrid’s rhythm, allowing Marseille to grow into the game.

Marseille Strike First Through Weah

Despite Real Madrid’s early dominance, it was Timothy Weah who stunned the home crowd by scoring in the 22nd minute, finishing off a sharp move to put Marseille ahead. The French visitors showed courage and organization, frustrating Madrid while looking dangerous on the counterattack.

Mbappé Steps Up for Madrid

Real Madrid needed a hero, and Kylian Mbappé delivered under pressure. In the 29th minute, the referee awarded Madrid a penalty, which Mbappé calmly slotted past the keeper to level the score.

After Carvajal’s red card left Madrid with ten men, the game looked as though it could swing in Marseille’s favor. But once again, fortune favored the Spanish giants when they were awarded a second penalty in the 81st minute. Mbappé made no mistake, scoring his brace and sealing a crucial victory for his side.

Key Performances

• Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) – The match-winner. Showed composure from the spot to score twice under immense pressure.
  
• Timothy Weah (Marseille) – Took his goal brilliantly and caused problems for Madrid’s backline throughout the match.
  
• Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid) – A night to forget. Came on early but was sent off in the 72nd minute, putting his team in jeopardy.
  
• Real Madrid Midfield – Despite going down to ten men, they controlled possession and limited Marseille’s chances late on.
  

What This Result Means

• Real Madrid: The victory keeps them on track in the Champions League group stage, but questions will be raised about their reliance on Mbappé’s penalties and the defensive vulnerability shown without Alexander-Arnold.
  
• Marseille: Despite the loss, their spirited performance away from home will give them belief heading into the next fixtures. If they maintain this level, they could still challenge for qualification.
  

Final Thoughts

This was not Real Madrid’s most convincing win, but in European football, results matter more than performances. Thanks to Mbappé’s penalty heroics, Madrid escaped with all three points, while Marseille left wondering what might have been.

The match had everything — an early injury, a red card, a shock opener, and a superstar stepping up when it counted most. It was the perfect reminder of why the Champions League delivers unforgettable drama year after year.

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