French media react to Liverpool win over 'outclassed' Marseille

 Liverpool dispelled plenty of doubts at the Stade Vélodrome on Wednesday night, beating Marseille 3-0 to put them on course for a top eight finish in the Champions League league phase. Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a brilliantly executed free-kick in first-half stoppage time, catching the Marseille wall off guard by firing under the jumping defenders.

The Reds controlled proceedings throughout, with their pressing game suffocating Roberto De Zerbi’s side. The Italian manager admitted post-match: “We played badly, we didn’t play well. We lost many balls in the central area because we misunderstood the match”. Marseille struggled to cope with Liverpool’s intensity, particularly in midfield where Alexis Mac Allister and Szoboszlai dominated.

An unfortunate own goal from Gerónimo Rulli in the 72nd minute doubled Liverpool’s advantage before Cody Gakpo sealed the victory in stoppage time. And it’s fair to say French media were scathing of their assessment of the home side while also praising Arne Slot’s visiting men.

L’Équipe states that OM were “outclassed” and suffered a “stinging defeat”. De Zerbi was even given a rating of 3 for this game, having “lost his tactical battle against Slot”.

Local outlet La Marseillaise did not hold any punches either: “OM went off topic all along the line against Liverpool. Even if they never walked alone on their evening, the Phocaeans were not up to the task. They showed a naivety that allowed Liverpool to have a quiet evening. One that shows the difference between a regular in the Champions League and an apprentice who hopes to one day be invited to the big leagues.”

“Outclassed,” says Le Figaro. “Liverpool were too strong. In front of their home crowd at the Vélodrome, Olympique de Marseille were beaten by the English champions (0-3) (…) Roberto De Zerbi’s OM, who lacked too many things to compete.”

The defeat dropped Marseille to 19th place in the Champions League standings with 9 points from 7 matches. While still in the playoff qualification zone, their position is now precarious heading into the final matchday.