Marseille

Real Madrid learn Dean Huijsen punishment after La Liga reject appeal against red card as Xabi Alonso faces selection headache

Real Madrid’s appeal against Dean Huijsen’s red card against Real Sociedad has been rejected, with the 20-year-old defender handed a one-match ban. The decision leaves Xabi Alonso short of defensive options as Antonio Rudiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both sidelined. Madrid will now turn to the Appeals Committee in a last-ditch effort to clear Huijsen for Saturday’s clash with Espanyol.

Vinicius Jr warned to get used to bench role as Xabi Alonso says Brazilian can't 'feel offended' by Rodrygo starting in Champions League win against Marseille

Vinicius Junior was named on the bench for Real Madrid's Champions League opener against Marseille on Tuesday, with Rodrygo starting in his place on the left wing. After the game, head coach Xabi Alonso made it clear that the squad must get used to his rotational policy and sit out a game every now and then, but reassured that Vinicius remains just as important to the cause.

Real Madrid player ratings vs Marseille: Kylian Mbappe keeps his cool as 10-man Blancos are bailed out by highly contentious handball call after Dani Carvajal's moment of complete madness

Kylian Mbappe buried two penalties to overcome a fine finish from Tim Weah as Real Madrid opened their Champions League campaign with a narrow 2-1 win over Marseille. It was a rather mixed night from Los Blancos, who lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to injury and saw Dani Carvajal sent off, but managed to snag a late win in their search for Champions League redemption.