Real Madrid lived one of those European nights that make the Santiago Bernabéu tremble. With two penalties converted by Kylian Mbappé, Los Blancos came from behind against Olympique de Marseille and confirmed that their French star is the true leader of a project beginning to take shape under Xabi Alonso. It wasn’t an easy win: the sending off of Dani Carvajal forced the hosts to play short-handed for the second straight match, until the impact of Vinícius Jr. finally unleashed euphoria in the stands.

Mbappé, the undisputed leader

The French forward wasted no time in showing that every ball he touches can change a match. In the very first minute he tried a bicycle kick that lifted fans out of their seats. Later, with Madrid pressing in attack but trailing after an error in the build-up by Arda Güler, the spark of Rodrygo Goes appeared, earning a penalty after being brought down by Geoffrey Kondogbia. From the spot, Mbappé made no mistake, netting his fifth goal in just five matches this season.

The second strike came at the decisive stage, when Madrid’s pressure and Vinícius’ speed forced a handball inside the box. The Frenchman once again executed with class, sealing the comeback on a night that reinforced his role as the team’s absolute leader.

An electric and spirited Madrid

The first half from Xabi Alonso’s side was a true offensive showcase. Eighteen shots, eleven on target, with quick passing combinations, high pressing, and relentless intensity that suffocated Marseille. The crowd fed off the energy of a team that is beginning to show the tactical imprint of its new coach: no one has a guaranteed spot, and only performance decides who plays. Proof of that was Vinícius starting on the bench, a decision unthinkable in the Carlo Ancelotti era.

The problem for Los Blancos came in the second half. Carvajal’s sending off, after falling into Rulli’s provocation, left Madrid with ten men. However, instead of collapsing, the team relied on Vinícius’ spark and Thibaut Courtois’ reliability to hold on to their lead.

A victory that excites Madridistas

The win was celebrated as more than just three points: it was confirmation that this Real Madrid has personality, options, and the hunger for European dominance. With youngsters like Mastantuono showing grit in his continental debut, a midfield still under construction where Tchouaméni is starting to establish himself, and a Mbappé seemingly destined to make history at the club, the fans left the Bernabéu dreaming of the sixteenth title.

Xabi Alonso’s first European night as Madrid coach at Chamartín delivered a clear message: this team still has flaws to correct, but it is beginning to build an identity that resonates with its supporters. And as long as Mbappé continues leading with goals and character, Madrid’s hope will remain alive.