Tim Weah, the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) player, etched his name in soccer history by scoring a Champions League goal at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu against Real Madrid. Weah's achievement marks him as the first USMNT player to score at this iconic stadium. The goal came during Marseille's opening Champions League match of the season against Real Madrid on Tuesday.
In the 22nd minute, Mason Greenwood dispossessed Arda Güler, drove forward, and then passed the ball to Weah, who delivered a clinical finish. Weah's right-footed strike broke the deadlock, giving Marseille an early lead.
Weah's goal carries historical significance, as he became only the second USMNT player to ever score against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Christian Pulisic was the first, achieving the feat for Chelsea in a 2021 semifinal clash. Adding to the narrative, Tim Weah mirrored his father, George Weah, who also scored at the Santiago Bernabéu in 1994 while playing for Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinals.
Despite Weah's opener, Real Madrid responded quickly, with Kylian Mbappe scoring a penalty in the 29th minute. Mbappe later scored again in the 81st minute, securing a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid. The match also saw drama as Real Madrid's Dani Carvajal was sent off in the 72nd minute after a headbutting incident with Marseille goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli.
Weah joined Marseille this summer after spending two seasons with Juventus. This goal was his first in the Champions League competition and his first for Marseille. Although he had a slow start with Marseille, his performance on Tuesday showcased his capabilities. Before this match, he had an expected goal (xG) rate of 0.01 in his first four matches.
Following the match, Weah spoke about his decision to join OM, mentioning coach Roberto De Zerbi as a significant influence. He praised De Zerbi's passion and his belief in Weah's potential.
Real Madrid and Juventus have a storied history in European competitions, having met eighteen times, all in the European Cup/UEFA Champions League. Real Madrid has won eight matches, and Juventus has also won eight matches, with two draws.
Timothy Weah, born on February 22, 2000, has represented the United States at various levels, including the U15, U17, U20, and U23 teams. He earned his first senior international cap in March 2018. Weah was part of the USMNT squads that won the CONCACAF Nations League in 2021, 2023, and 2024.
