The Santiago Bernabéu once again witnessed an unforgettable Champions League night, with Kylian Mbappé as the main star. The French forward reached 50 goals with Real Madrid since his arrival in July 2024, doing so with a brace from the penalty spot to lead the comeback against Olympique de Marseille. Reduced to ten men after Dani Carvajal’s sending off, Los Blancos showed character and leaned on their fans’ support to begin their European campaign with an epic victory.

Mbappé and a record that adds to his legend

From the very first minute, Mbappé made it clear he wanted to be the protagonist. A bicycle kick that came close to scoring was just the warning of what was to come. The Frenchman exuded that constant sense of danger every time he touched the ball, and with Madrid trailing after a defensive mistake, he was the one to take responsibility.

The first penalty came after a brilliant move from Rodrygo Goes, who was brought down in the box by Geoffrey Kondogbia. With power and composure, Mbappé converted from the spot to level the score, netting his fifth goal in just five matches this season. The second strike, also from the spot, came after an incisive run by Vinícius Jr., who came off the bench to shake up the game and force a handball from a rival defender. With ice-cold precision, Mbappé sealed the win and reached a historic milestone in the white shirt.

A Real Madrid that connects with its fans

Xabi Alonso’s side delivered a dominant first half: 18 shots, 11 on target, with quick combinations and high pressing that overwhelmed Marseille. The crowd responded with enthusiasm at the sight of a Madrid beginning to translate training-ground work onto the pitch. However, Los Blancos once again dipped in the second half, compounded by Carvajal’s red card that forced them to play short-handed for the second straight match.

The spark of Vinícius proved vital to maintain attacking firepower, while Thibaut Courtois turned into a hero in the closing minutes with decisive saves. The youthful energy of Mastantuono, the growing solidity of Tchouaméni, and the ambition of Rodrygo all added depth to a team that still shows defensive flaws but earned the full ovation of its supporters.

A victory with eyes on the future

Beyond the result, the night will be remembered for Kylian Mbappé’s new milestone, as in just over a year he has already scored 50 goals as a Real Madrid player. His presence is cemented as the undisputed leader of a project that aims for a sixteenth European Cup.

With personality, hunger, and a renewed bond with the stands, this Madrid made it clear that it is ready to dream big. And as long as Mbappé continues making the difference on the biggest nights, Madridistas’ hope will remain unshaken.