Real Madrid overcame early setbacks to beat Marseille in their Champions League opener, with Kylian Mbappe scoring two crucial penalties.
What Happened During the Match?
- Real Madrid lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to a hamstring injury just three minutes into his first Champions League game for the club.
- Dani Carvajal, who replaced Alexander-Arnold, was sent off with 18 minutes remaining after a confrontation with Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli.
- Marseille took the lead in the 22nd minute through Timothy Weah, capitalizing on a turnover by Mason Greenwood.
- Mbappe equalized six minutes later by converting a penalty after Rodrygo was fouled.
- Despite being a man down, Real Madrid continued to press and earned a second penalty when Facundo Medina handled the ball in the box.
- Mbappe calmly converted the second penalty to secure the win.
What Are the Implications?
- Mbappe’s two penalties bring his tally to six goals in five games this season for Real Madrid.
- Real Madrid, under new coach Xabi Alonso, aims to improve on last season’s performance where they finished 11th in the Champions League group stage.
- Alexander-Arnold’s injury could sideline him for the upcoming match against Liverpool on 4 November, adding to his limited appearances this season.
What’s Next?
- Real Madrid will face Kairat in Kazakhstan on 30 September.
- Marseille will host Ajax on the same day.
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