Mbappé Magic! Real Madrid Survive 10-Man Drama to Beat Marseille
Real Madrid kicked off their Champions League campaign with a rollercoaster 2-1 victory over Marseille. Fans at the Santiago Bernabéu witnessed brilliance, mistakes, and drama that left everyone on the edge of their seats.
Marseille Strike First!
The French visitors shocked the hosts in the 22nd minute. Timothy Weah raced clear after a costly error from Arda Guler and smashed a shot past Thibaut Courtois. Marseille were 1-0 up, and Madrid fans held their breath.
Mbappé Steps Up!
Six minutes later, Real hit back. Geoffrey Kondogbia tripped Rodrygo in the box, and Kylian Mbappé coolly converted the penalty to level the score. The Santiago Bernabéu erupted as Madrid showed why they are 15-time European champions.
Red Card Drama!
The match turned fiery in the 72nd minute. Dani Carvajal, who had come on after five minutes to replace the injured Alexander-Arnold, was sent off for headbutting Marseille goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli in a heated clash. Real Madrid were suddenly down to ten men – but the drama wasn’t over.
Late Heroics!
With 10 men, Real Madrid didn’t fold. In the 81st minute, Vinícius Júnior made a blistering run, and the ball deflected off Facundo Medina’s arm. Another penalty, and Mbappé stepped up again, coolly sending the keeper the wrong way to seal a 2-1 win.
Courtois and Rulli Shine
Both goalkeepers had moments to remember. Rulli denied Madrid ten times in the first half, including a stunning one-handed save from Mbappé’s bicycle kick. Courtois, meanwhile, kept Real in the game with key stops that allowed the late comeback.
Champions League Spirit!
“It was a difficult night, because we were down to 10 men, but we showed our Champions League spirit,” said Mbappé. Real Madrid proved they can fight through adversity, showing resilience and flair even when reduced in numbers.
What’s Next?
Madrid leave Marseille with three points, but the game raised questions about discipline and VAR decisions. Can Real maintain this fighting spirit throughout the group stage? One thing’s for sure – Europe knows Madrid are never out of a game until the final whistle.
