Real Madrid wins, but Xabi Alonso acknowledges the problem: 'We have to talk'

Xabi Alonso experienced an intense and magical first Champions League night at Bernabéu. Real Madrid hosted Olympique de Marseille in a match that promised strong emotions. The truth is that Xabi went for an offensive starting eleven that made the plan clear from the opening whistle.

The first half was a true monologue from Real Madrid. In just 45 minutes, Xabi Alonso's team took more than ten shots on goal. However, the lack of accuracy in the final third prevented the scoreboard from reflecting the home team's superiority.

Meanwhile, Marseille could barely get out of their own half. The high pressing and intensity from the Whites made it impossible for the French team to keep any continuity in their play. Even so, at halftime, the scoreboard showed an unfair 1-1 draw.

The second half had everything

Already in the second half, everything got complicated for Real Madrid. Dani Carvajal received a red card in a childish manner, leaving the team with one less player. His sending off made a match that had seemed under control much more difficult.

Despite being outnumbered, the Whites didn't give up. Marseille had more space to attack, but they encountered a solid defense and Courtois very alert between the posts. Bernabéu pushed in search of victory and Vinícius came onto the field to win a truly questionable penalty.

Some questionable handball inside the French box led the referee to point to the penalty spot. Mbappé took responsibility and didn't miss, scoring the winning goal. Real Madrid earned its first three points in this Champions League and Xabi Alonso was able to celebrate his first European victory in charge of the Whites with enthusiasm.

Xabi Alonso acknowledges Real Madrid's weakness in the press room

However, the Basque coach wasn't entirely satisfied. In the press room, he appeared calm about the victory, but also critical of some aspects of the game. The biggest thorn in his side remains the same: the red cards.

Since he arrived in the Spanish capital, Xabi Alonso has managed 11 matches, and Real Madrid has seen a red card on four occasions. The latest sending off, Dani Carvajal's, set off all the alarms, as the captain made an avoidable mistake that left his teammates in a delicate situation. Xabi Alonso was very clear about it after the final whistle.

"The sending off is avoidable on our part, it's a shame and we'll have to talk about it", said the coach. His words show that the locker room will have to urgently correct this situation. The Champions League doesn't forgive discipline errors.