Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso commented on his team’s 2-1 victory over Marseille in the opening match of the UEFA Champions League main round of the 2025-26 season. The game marked Alonso’s first Champions League win in charge of the Madrid club.
A lot happened. It was a typical Champions League home game where anything can happen. Despite conceding a goal, we kept going and went into half-time 1-1. In the second half, the pace was less frenetic, but we felt we were creating chances to score. Then came the red card, and despite being a man down, the team continued to dominate and press. We found ourselves 2-1 up and didn't struggle at all. It's an important victory to get this first phase of the Champions League off to a good start.
Marseille took the lead in the 22nd minute through Timothy Weah. Real equalized in the 29th minute when Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty. In the 72nd minute, Real defender Dani Carvajal received a straight red card. Mbappé scored again from the spot in the 81st minute to make the final score 2-1.
With this result Real sit fourth in the overall group standings with three points, while Marseille are 33rd with no points.
Earlier, Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal compared the coaching styles of Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti.
