Real Madrid vs Marseille: Predictions Preview, Lineups, H2h for September 17, 2025

The 2025/26 Champions League group stage begins on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, where Real Madrid faces French team Marseille. Here’s a betting preview for this matchup with strong winning prospects.

Match preview

Real Madrid starts another European season as favorites, despite exiting in the quarter-finals last year. They have begun this season with four straight wins, and Xabi Alonso’s new approach gives the team a fresh look. While losing players like Bellingham, Camavinga, and Rüdiger is significant, the squad, led by Mbappé and Vinicius, remains strong.

The team’s main advantage is their powerful offense. In 8 of Real’s last 9 Champions League matches, there have been at least three goals, a trend likely to continue. At home, they are formidable, boasting 15 wins in their last 20 European games at the Bernabeu, making it a challenging place for any opponent.

Marseille returns to the Champions League after a hiatus, facing a top European team. Under Roberto De Zerbi, they play bravely, but their results in Europe have not been impressive. The team has gone 26 matches in the Champions League without a draw, with many ending in losses.

Their away performance is particularly concerning, with 11 losses in their last 12 Champions League away games. They often allow two or more goals and struggle against well-organized defenses. While Aubameyang and Greenwood possess creativity, it may not be enough to outmatch Madrid’s strong system.

Probable line-ups

• Real Madrid: Courtois, Carreras, Heisen, Militao, Alexander-Arnold, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Güler, Mastantuono, Mbappé, Vinicius
• Marseille: Rulli, Murillo, Pavard, Aguerd, Medina, Gomez, Højbjerg, Greenwood, Nadir, Traore, Aubameyang

Match facts and head-to-head

• Real have scored at least twice in 15 of their last 20 home Champions League matches.
• Marseille have lost 11 of their last 12 away games in the Champions League.
• 8 of Real’s previous 9 Champions League matches have seen at least three goals scored.

Prediction

Given their current form, Real Madrid looks much stronger than Marseille, who have a track record of heavy losses in the Champions League away from home. Madrid’s attack should create a solid lead by halftime. Even if Marseille scores, keeping pace will be very challenging.