Real Madrid 2-1 Olympique Marseille: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin’s post-match review of Real Madrid 2-1 Olympique Marseille in the Champions League on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Olympique Marseille in a tightly contested Champions League match. The result was not surprising given Real Madrid's recent form, with Kylian Mbappé's brace from the penalty spot proving decisive. Olympique Marseille took the lead through Timothy Weah, but their inability to capitalise on their possession and chances ultimately cost them. Real Madrid's resilience, especially after Daniel Carvajal's red card, showcased their ability to adapt and secure crucial points.

The match saw Real Madrid extend their winning run, demonstrating their capacity to overcome adversity. Olympique Marseille, despite their early lead, failed to maintain momentum, ending their unbeaten streak in the competition. Mbappé's performance was standout, with his penalties in the 28th and 81st minutes proving pivotal. The result underscores Real Madrid's strength and depth, even when reduced to ten men.

The match's turning point came early with Kylian Mbappé's penalty in the 28th minute, leveling the score after Olympique Marseille's Timothy Weah had given them the lead in the 22nd minute. Mbappé's second penalty in the 81st minute secured the win for Real Madrid, showcasing his composure under pressure. The game's intensity was further highlighted by Daniel Carvajal's red card in the 72nd minute, forcing Real Madrid to play with ten men for the final stages.

Substitutions played a crucial role, with Real Madrid making four and Olympique Marseille five. Real Madrid's substitutions, including Vinícius Junior and Brahim Diaz in the 63rd minute, helped maintain their momentum despite the numerical disadvantage. Olympique Marseille's late substitutions, including Amine Gouiri and Michael Murillo in the 78th minute, failed to change the game's outcome. These key moments illustrate the match's ebb and flow and the decisive impact of penalties and player discipline.

Real Madrid deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Kylian Mbappé leading the attack and supported by Rodrygo, Arda Güler, and Franco Mastantuono. The lineup was largely expected, with no major surprises. Mbappé's performance was exceptional, scoring both goals from the penalty spot and proving his value to the team. The early substitution of Daniel Carvajal in the 5th minute and his subsequent red card in the 72nd minute disrupted the backline, but Real Madrid's resilience shone through.

The impact of substitutions was notable, with Vinícius Junior and Brahim Diaz entering the game in the 63rd minute to bolster the attack. Their contributions helped maintain Real Madrid's momentum despite being a man down. The lineup and substitutions demonstrated Real Madrid's depth and tactical flexibility, crucial in securing the victory.

Olympique Marseille lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the attack and supported by Mason Greenwood, Matt O'Riley, and Timothy Weah. The lineup was as expected, with no significant surprises. Weah's early goal in the 22nd minute showcased his threat, but the team struggled to maintain their lead. The midfield pairing of Geoffrey Kondogbia and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg provided stability but failed to convert possession into more goals.

Substitutions were made in an attempt to change the game's course, with Igor Paixão and Arthur Vermeeren entering in the 66th and 67th minutes, respectively. Late changes, including Amine Gouiri and Michael Murillo in the 78th minute, aimed to inject fresh legs but were insufficient to overturn the deficit. The lineup and substitutions highlighted Olympique Marseille's efforts to adapt, but their inability to capitalise on possession was their downfall.

Kylian Mbappé is Bwin’s Man of the Match, with his performance pivotal in Real Madrid's victory. Scoring two crucial penalties, Mbappé demonstrated his composure and finishing ability. His contribution extended beyond goals, creating one big chance and delivering six key passes, showcasing his all-around impact on the game. Mbappé's performance was the difference-maker, earning him the well-deserved accolade.

• Win: 2-1 vs Olympique Marseille (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Real Madrid (A)

Real Madrid now sit in 4th place with 3 points, and their next challenge is against Espanyol on September 20, 2025, in La Liga. This result will boost their confidence, and they will likely approach the game with a focus on maintaining their winning momentum. The ability to secure a victory despite being a man down will be a key factor in their preparation and strategy.

Olympique Marseille find themselves in 33rd place with 0 points, and their next fixture is against Paris Saint Germain on September 21, domestically. This loss will necessitate a strategic rethink, as they face a formidable opponent. The team will need to address their inability to convert possession into goals and improve their defensive discipline to avoid similar outcomes.

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