‘Everyone is confused by that rule’: Mbappe on late penalty debate

Kylian Mbappe converted two penalties to secure Real Madrid a dramatic 2-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille in their Champions League opener at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the second spot-kick sparking furious debate.

The 15-time European champions had to battle through adversity after losing Dani Carvajal to a red card in the 72nd minute, but Mbappe's composure from the spot in the 87th sealed all three points — though not without controversy.

Marseille had taken the lead in the 22nd minute through Timothy Weah, who punished a mistake from Arda Guler, before Geoffrey Kondogbia's clumsy foul on Rodrygo allowed Mbappe to level from the spot just seven minutes later.

From there, Real Madrid controlled the ball but lacked cutting edge, with Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli producing a string of superb saves to deny Mbappe and Franco Mastantuono.

The drama escalated when substitute Vinicius Jr darted into the box late on, with the ball deflecting off Facundo Medina's boot and then onto the defender's outstretched arm. Referee Slavko Vincic pointed to the spot, and after VAR upheld the decision, Mbappe made no mistake.

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi erupted in anger after the final whistle.

"The second penalty is disgraceful, it wasn't a penalty, I would have said so even if it had been in my team's favour. It was never a penalty," De Zerbi told reporters.

Mbappe, however, defended the ruling while acknowledging the confusion around modern handball interpretations.

"The issue of handball is very complicated. Sometimes they say they'll give them all and then they don't. It's difficult to find any logic in it. We follow the rule and if it's a penalty, it's a penalty. For me, it is, but I can understand why some people say it isn't; everyone is confused by that rule. Either it's handball or it isn't. But if a penalty is awarded, I'll take it and score, that's all there is to it."

The French star also highlighted Madrid's resilience despite being reduced to 10 men.

"It was a difficult night, because we were down to 10 men, but we showed our Champions League spirit at the Santiago Bernabeu. We know we can win here against anyone and we're happy for the victory."

Pressed on his personal ambitions, Mbappe was clear he isn't chasing numbers.

"As many as possible. I don't set limits for myself. I just want to help the team: if that means scoring, then scoring; if it means pressing, then pressing; or if it means assisting, then assisting. I want to do whatever the team needs me to do."