Olympique de Marseille delivered a commanding performance at the Vélodrome, asserting their dominance with a 3-1 victory over RC Lens and sending a strong signal in the Ligue 1 title race.
From the first whistle, Roberto De Zerbi’s side imposed themselves, leaving little doubt about their ambitions this season.
Marseille wasted no time taking control. Just three minutes in, Amine Gouiri capitalized on a loose ball inside the box, calmly slotting past Brice Samba Risser to spark the home crowd into life.
The early goal set the tone for a high-intensity opening period, with Marseille pressing relentlessly and forcing Lens into costly mistakes deep in their own half.
The momentum continued in the 13th minute when teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri made a dream debut.
Driving forward from midfield with poise and confidence, the young Englishman finished a solo run with composure, doubling the lead and earning a standing ovation from the Vélodrome faithful.
Lens tried to regroup after halftime, but Marseille’s organization and defensive solidity kept them at bay. Goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli was alert when needed, maintaining the hosts’ clean sheet until Gouiri struck again in the 75th minute.
A slick team move concluded with the Algerian forward’s close-range finish, completing his brace and extending Marseille’s lead to 3-0.
Lens did manage a late consolation in the 85th minute, with Fofana finishing a well-constructed move to make it 3-1. However, the goal did little to change the narrative, as Marseille controlled the closing stages with authority.
The victory propels Marseille to 38 points, climbing to third place and strengthening their claim as serious title contenders. Lens remain second with 43 points, but the defeat was a missed opportunity to solidify their position.
At the Vélodrome, Marseille’s message was clear: they are ready to challenge at the very top.
