UCL: Kylian Mbappé makes OM bend and gives Real Madrid the perfect start | OneFootball

Real Madrid claim victory at the Bernabéu against Marseille thanks to Kylian Mbappé.

UCL: Kylian Mbappé makes OM bend and gives Real Madrid the perfect start

Kylian Mbappé propelled Real Madrid to victory over Olympique de Marseille on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabéu. The French striker netted a brace from the penalty spot, allowing Los Merengues to claim a 2-1 win in their opening match of the 2025/2026 Champions League campaign.

Marseille returned to the Champions League after a two-year absence. Roberto De Zerbi fielded an unfamiliar backline (Medina-Pavard-Balerdi-Emerson), with Nayef Aguerd unavailable, and opted for a compact midfield featuring Matt O’Riley just behind Aubameyang. Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, started without Vinícius Junior. The attacking trio consisted of Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Franco Mastantuono.

Weah against the run of play, Mbappé rescues Real

Real Madrid dominated the early stages, launching wave after wave of attacks at Rulli’s goal. Despite a tough start, Marseille opened the scoring against the run of play thanks to Timothy Weah, who finished off a well-executed counterattack.

Real responded swiftly. Kondogbia conceded a penalty following a surging run from Rodrygo, which Mbappé calmly converted. In the second half, Medina was penalized for a handball in the box, giving the Bondy native another chance. The French striker’s second spot-kick, slightly deflected by Rulli, still found the back of the net.

Carvajal’s red card for a headbutt on Rulli briefly reignited Marseille’s hopes. Despite having a man advantage, Roberto De Zerbi’s side could not find an equalizer. Greenwood and Aubameyang tried to spark an OM comeback, but Courtois was up to the challenge, denying their efforts.