THE MATCH
Olympique de Marseille claimed the top spot in Ligue 1 on Saturday afternoon, securing a 3-0 victory over Stade Brestois at the Stade Vélodrome, thanks to goals from Angel Gomes, Mason Greenwood, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Following a midweek Champions League defeat to Atalanta, a revitalized Roberto De Zerbi’s squad not only bounced back but also surpassed Paris Saint-Germain in the league standings, ahead of PSG’s match against Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday evening.
Arthur Vermeeren and Pierre Emile Højbjerg joined Marseille’s starting lineup, alongside Angel Gomes, who played as an attacking midfielder. Gomes started strong, nearly connecting with Aubameyang in the box within the first minute. Mason Greenwood followed soon after, firing a shot over the bar before setting up Aubameyang for a one-on-one chance, which unfortunately went wide of the post. At the other end, Brest’s Mboup was released into the OM box, prompting Geronimo Rulli to make a crucial early save.
Marseille opened the scoring when Angel Gomes’s free kick was mishandled by Brest goalkeeper Majecki, leading to a goal that ignited the crowd at the Vélodrome (25′). Just minutes later, Mason Greenwood doubled the lead after a foul on Igor Paixao, who was blocked while making a swift run into the area. Greenwood converted the penalty with confidence, marking his ninth goal this season across all competitions (32′). The home side headed into halftime comfortably ahead, poised to retain their lead in the league.
The second half began quietly with several missed opportunities, but the game soon regained intensity. Angel Gomes missed a chance for his second goal, but it wasn’t long before Marseille struck again. Substitute Matt O’Riley raced down the right flank before providing an accurate cross to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who expertly finished, sealing the match for the home side.
OLYMPIQUE DE MARSEILLE PLAYER RATINGS
Geronimo Rulli – 6
Nayef Aguerd – 5
Benjamin Pavard – 7
Emerson Palmieri – 5
Michael Amir Murillo – 6
Angel Gomes – 7
Gomes delivered one of his standout performances since joining Marseille this summer. De Zerbi effectively utilized him as an attacking midfielder, allowing him to connect the wingers, midfield, and Aubameyang, showcasing impressive crossing skills. He was fortunate to have his second goal of the season come from Majecki’s error.
Arthur Vermeeren – 5
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg – 5
Mason Greenwood – 7
Igor Paixao – 6
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang – 6
STADE BRESTOIS PLAYER RATINGS
Radoslaw Majecki – 3
Bradley Locko – 5
Brenden Chardonnet – 4
Soumaila Coulibaly – 4
Kenny Lala – 5
Hugo Magnetti – 5
Romain Del Castillo – 5
Joris Chotard – 4
Mama Baldé – 4
Ludovic Ajorque – 4
GFFN | George Boxall – Reporting from Stade Vélodrome, Marseille