Real Madrid vs Olympique de Marseille: Timeline, Where and How to Watch the UEFA Champions League Clash

Real Madrid will face Olympique de Marseille in their UEFA Champions League 2025/26 group stage opener. The match will be played at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. Kickoff is set for Wednesday, September 17, at 12:30 AM IST.

The Spanish giants enter the game as clear favorites. They hold a perfect record against Marseille, with four wins in four European meetings. Marseille, however, will look to change history under coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Real Madrid vs Marseille: Match Timeline and Details

Real Madrid are chasing a record 16th Champions League crown. The team is led by Kylian Mbappé, who has already scored four goals this season. Vinícius Jr. and Franco Mastantuono are also expected to start in attack.

Coach Xabi Alonso will have Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga back in the squad. Both may start on the bench after recovering from injuries. Defender Antonio Rüdiger remains unavailable due to a muscle problem.

Marseille arrive in Madrid with new signings Benjamin Pavard and Nayef Aguerd in defense. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will lead the attack alongside Mason Greenwood. Gerónimo Rulli is likely to start in goal. Despite strong reinforcements, the French side has never defeated Real Madrid in Europe.

The game will be officiated by Bosnian referee Irfan Peljto.

Where and How to Watch Real Madrid vs Marseille

The Champions League opener will be broadcast globally. In India, the match will be live on the Sony Sports Network. Fans can stream it live on the SonyLIV app.

In the United States, kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT. Coverage will be available across leading sports broadcasters.

Supporters in Spain can follow the clash live from the Santiago Bernabéu or tune in on national broadcasters. According to Reuters, Real Madrid’s matches remain among the most watched fixtures in European football.

For Marseille, the challenge will be to overcome the intensity of the Bernabéu crowd. Their last visit to Spain ended in defeat, but with a new-look squad, they hope to spring a surprise.

What to Expect from the Match

Real Madrid have won 16 of their last 18 opening group games in the Champions League. History and form favor the Spanish side. Mbappé will be the key player to watch, while young stars like Mastantuono could make headlines.

Marseille will depend on discipline in defense and quick transitions in attack. Aubameyang’s experience and Greenwood’s creativity may trouble Madrid if given space.

This clash is expected to set the tone for Group Stage dynamics. A win for Madrid would secure control early. For Marseille, even a draw would be seen as a major success.

Real Madrid vs Olympique de Marseille is set to be a thrilling clash at the Bernabéu. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as Europe’s biggest competition returns.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When is Real Madrid vs Olympique de Marseille being played?

The match will be played on September 17, 2025, at 12:30 AM IST at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid.

Q2: Where can fans watch Real Madrid vs Marseille live in India?

Fans in India can watch on Sony Sports Network and stream live on the SonyLIV app.

Q3: What time does the match start in the US?

Kickoff is at 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

Q4: Who are the key players to watch for Real Madrid?

Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Franco Mastantuono are expected to lead the attack. Jude Bellingham may also feature from the bench.

Q5: Has Marseille ever beaten Real Madrid in the Champions League?

No. Real Madrid have won all four previous meetings against Marseille in the competition.