Real Madrid vs Marseille — Champions League Preview (16 Sept 2025)
Kick-off: 21:00 CET
Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26, Matchday 1
Match Context
Real Madrid, 14-time European champions, begin their latest quest for continental glory with a home clash against Olympique de Marseille.
Xabi Alons's side are early favorites for the trophy once again, boasting a squad packed with stars like Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo. Marseille, meanwhile, are underdogs but enter this campaign with nothing to lose, seeking to frustrate Madrid with defensive discipline and quick counter-attacks.
The Bernabéu expects nothing less than a winning start.
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Team News & Predicted Lineups
Real Madrid (4-3-1-2)
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GK: Thibaut Courtois
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RB: Dani Carvajal
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CB: Éder Militão
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CB: Antonio Rüdiger
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LB: Ferland Mendy
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CM: Federico Valverde
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CM: Aurélien Tchouaméni
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CM: Eduardo Camavinga
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AM: Jude Bellingham
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ST: Vinícius Júnior
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ST: Rodrygo
Key Notes:
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Bellingham plays as the advanced midfielder, crucial for transitions.
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Vini Jr and Rodrygo form a rapid, technical front two.
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Midfield balance built around Tchouaméni’s defensive presence.
Marseille (3-4-2-1)
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GK: Pau López
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CB: Chancel Mbemba
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CB: Leonardo Balerdi
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CB: Samuel Gigot
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RWB: Jonathan Clauss
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LWB: Renan Lodi
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CM: Geoffrey Kondogbia
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CM: Jordan Veretout
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AM: Amine Harit
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AM: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
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ST: Vitinha
Key Notes:
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Aubameyang expected to play off Vitinha in a dual attacking role.
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Clauss and Lodi will be vital in providing width and counter-attacks.
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Kondogbia adds strength in midfield but could be overrun by Madrid’s trio.
Tactical Analysis
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Real Madrid’s Approach:
Aggressive pressing, midfield dominance, and quick transitions through Bellingham and Valverde. Vini Jr and Rodrygo stretch defences with pace. -
Marseille’s Approach:
Structured 3-4-2-1, sitting deep and hitting on the break. Aubameyang’s experience and Vitinha’s movement are their best chances. -
Key Battle: Bellingham vs Kondogbia — Madrid’s creator against Marseille’s defensive shield.
Key Players to Watch
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Real Madrid: Jude Bellingham — in sensational form, dictates attacks and scores goals.
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Real Madrid: Vinícius Júnior — lightning-fast winger-turned-striker, Madrid’s main attacking weapon.
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Marseille: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang — veteran striker, dangerous if given space.
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Marseille: Jonathan Clauss — wing-back providing width and dangerous crosse
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