Liverpool revived their hopes of direct qualification for the Champions League round of 16 after securing a valuable 3-0 away win against French side Olympique de Marseille on Wednesday, in the seventh round of the competition’s league stage.
At the Stade Vélodrome, Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring for Liverpool in the first minute of first-half stoppage time. The Reds’ second goal came in the 72nd minute, courtesy of an own goal by Marseille’s Argentine goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli.
Dutch substitute Cody Gakpo added Liverpool’s third goal in the third minute of second-half stoppage time.
The match saw the Egyptian forward start in Liverpool’s lineup, marking his return to the squad under the Dutch manager following his participation with his national team in the Africa Cup of Nations finals, which recently concluded in Morocco.
This victory somewhat alleviates the criticism directed at the manager, especially after the team drew its last four matches in the Premier League.
With this result, Liverpool, who secured their fifth win of the season in the competition against two losses, increased their points tally to 15, placing them fourth. Marseille’s points total remains at 9, putting them in nineteenth place.
It is noted that the clubs finishing in the top eight positions will qualify directly for the round of 16, while clubs placed from ninth to twenty-fourth must compete in a play-off round to qualify for the knockout stage.
Liverpool
Liverpool is a historic port city in northwest England, which grew to global prominence during the 18th and 19th centuries due to its pivotal role in trade, including the transatlantic slave trade, and as a major emigration port. Its cultural significance is recognized worldwide, notably through its status as the birthplace of The Beatles and its UNESCO-designated waterfront, featuring landmarks like the Royal Liver Building.
Champions League
The UEFA Champions League is an annual European club football competition organized by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). It was inaugurated in 1955 as the European Champion Clubs’ Cup, evolving into its current group and knockout format in 1992. It is widely considered the most prestigious club tournament in world football.
Olympique de Marseille
Olympique de Marseille is a French professional football club founded in 1899, making it one of the oldest and most successful clubs in France. It is most famous for winning the UEFA Champions League in 1993, becoming the first and only French club to achieve this victory. The club has a passionate fan base and a historic rivalry with Paris Saint-Germain, known as “Le Classique.”
Stade Vélodrome
The Stade Vélodrome is a major football stadium in Marseille, France, and the home of Olympique de Marseille. Originally built in 1937, it was renovated and expanded significantly for the 1998 FIFA World Cup and again for UEFA Euro 2016.
Premier League
The Premier League is the top level of the English football league system, founded in 1992 when clubs in the Football League First Division broke away to capitalize on lucrative television rights deals. It has since grown into one of the world’s most popular and commercially successful sports leagues, known for its global reach and competitive intensity.
Africa Cup of Nations
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the premier international men’s football competition in Africa, first held in 1957. It was founded by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to foster unity and showcase the continent’s football talent, with Egypt winning the inaugural tournament.
Morocco
Morocco is a North African country with a rich history shaped by indigenous Amazigh (Berber) cultures, Arab influence from the 7th century, and successive dynasties like the Almoravids and Almohads. Its cultural sites, such as the ancient city of Fez and the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, reflect this blend of Arab, Islamic, and Amazigh heritage. The country is also known for its historic medinas, kasbahs, and the vibrant traditions of its souks and crafts.
