PSG maintains winning run with 2-1 win over Marseille

 

Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday secured another win in the French Ligue 1 clash against Olympique Marseille.

After controlling the game, the host took the lead in the 12th minute through Neymar. The Brazilian scored with an excellent lob courtesy of a good pass from Marco Veratti.

Despite a dominant performance from the hosts, Marseille striker Cengiz Under crossed the ball, but Gianluigi Donnarumma saved the ball.

After the Italian tripped Matteo Guendouzi, he was booked for stopping a counter.

Marseille continued to be dangerous, reducing the possession to 49—51 in favour of the host but were unable to draw level.

Gerson was also booked after he tripped Lionel Messi.

Dimitri Payet’s cross almost secured an equaliser after Presnel Kimpembe’s error. Marquinhos relieves the pressure with a clearance as PSG maintained the lead.

Marseille eventually got rewarded for their pressure equalising after the half-hour mark.

Duje Caleta-Car got an easy goal as he tapped the ball into an open goal with the right foot, punishing Verratti a poor play. The Italy international’s weak attempt to clear the ball puts his side under pressure, and they couldn’t stop Marseille from drawing level.

Despite getting the majority of the possession, Marseille failed to threaten the Paris team that appeared more dangerous with the attacking trident of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Messi.

After Valentin Rongier handled the ball in the penalty box, the host was eventually awarded a penalty.

The referee had waved play on until he was called by VAR to see the situation from the pitch monitor.

After checking, the referee pointed to the spot, which led to frequent protests from Valentin Rongier.

Kylian Mbappe then stepped up and put it away from the penalty spot with the right foot. However, Pau Lopez was close to saving the ball but couldn’t stop the Frenchman from scoring.

This then became the final score as both sides failed to find the back of the net in the second half.

The win increased PSG’s lead at the top to 15 points.

What this means is that the Paris club needs to win one game and draw the next to be confirmed Ligue 1 champions.

 

Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed