Live Blog! Real Madrid vs Monaco in the UEFA Champions League

Bellingham also scores, Madrid now lead 6–1

Monaco pull one back

Vinícius keeps delivering an impressive performance and scores a stunning goal

Own goal by Monaco after another good play from Vinícius

Another good play from Vinícius and a goal by Mastantuono to seal the match

Great play by Real Madrid, assist from Vinícius and a brace for Mbappé

Mbappé kicks off the party and Real Madrid are already in the lead

The lineups

The UEFA Champions League 2025–26 delivers one of its most intense matchdays with the clash between Real Madrid and Monaco at the Santiago Bernabéu, where both teams will be looking for a result that can shape their path in the league phase. The hosts arrive aiming to solidify their standing in the tournament, while the visitors hope to pull off a statement performance and disrupt the Spanish side’s ambitions.

Real Madrid seek European stability

The Spanish giants head into this matchup after a challenging week on the sporting front, marked by changes on the bench and recent results that have sparked debate among supporters. Álvaro Arbeloa has taken charge as head coach and now faces the task of reigniting the team in continental competition.

The Real Madrid squad features standout players capable of making the difference in a demanding fixture. Among them is Kylian Mbappé, who has been a key figure this season and is set to lead the attack, alongside Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, both expected to take on prominent roles on a European night.

Balancing experience with youth will be crucial for the Merengues as they look to control the tempo of the match. Defensive solidity combined with attacking quality is the formula Real Madrid will aim to impose in order to secure a victory that would place them in a more comfortable position in the race for the round of 16.

Monaco arrive with ambition and threat

On the other side, Monaco come into the match with a fearless mindset, determined to challenge a heavyweight opponent. The principality club have shown an adventurous approach in this Champions League campaign and, despite not being considered favorites, possess offensive tools that could cause problems at the Bernabéu.

Players such as Folarin Balogun headline a proposal built on speed and dynamism, capable of creating danger in advanced areas. The key for Monaco will be managing the rhythm of the game and being clinical in transition, waiting for the right moments to exploit any opportunity to unsettle the hosts.

A clash of styles and objectives

This meeting between Real Madrid and Monaco brings together two projects driven by different motivations. The Spanish club seek stability and a secure route to qualification, while the French side aim to take a significant step forward on the European stage. Pressure, tactical decisions and individual quality combine to set up an appealing, high-stakes contest where every touch and every call could tip the balance in the UEFA Champions League.