Liverpool Take a Step Toward Champions League Round of 16, Thrash Marseille

Staff Report: PNN

Liverpool delivered a dominant performance, defeating Olympic de Marseille 3–0 at home to move closer to securing a direct spot in the Champions League round of 16. With this win, Liverpool extended their unbeaten streak across all competitions to 13 matches.

Goals for Liverpool came from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo. The third goal resulted from an own goal by Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. With this win, Liverpool’s points rose to 15, putting them in a strong position to finish in the top eight of the group and secure a round of 16 spot. Marseille, despite the loss, remains in the playoff race with 9 points.

Liverpool controlled the game from the start. Although the first half saw slightly less attacking intensity, the team led in ball possession and pace. Just before halftime, Szoboszlai’s low free-kick found the net, turning the match in Liverpool’s favor.

Marseille tried to respond in the second half but failed to make an impact. In the 73rd minute, a cutback by Jo Frimpong was deflected into the net by Marseille goalkeeper Rulli. In stoppage time, Gakpo scored the third goal from Ryan Gravenberch’s pass, securing Liverpool’s victory.

Mohamed Salah returned to the starting eleven after a long absence. In defense, Joe Gomez stepped in at center-back due to the absence of Ibrahima Konaté. After the match, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk said, “To play against teams like this, you have to maintain composure. Everyone fulfilled their responsibilities well.”

Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi acknowledged Liverpool’s superiority, stating, “We didn’t play well in the first half. They are experienced in such matches.”

In their final group match, Marseille will face Belgium’s Club Brugge in a tough contest to stay in Europe, while Liverpool can secure their round of 16 place with a win against Qarabag at home.