Do they see the glass half empty or half full? The Marseillais put in a strong performance in the semi-final first leg of the Europa League, Thursday May 2. But failing to materialize their opportunities, they remain under threat from Atalanta Bergamo (1-1). The big opportunity from Azzedine Ounahi, who shot on the crossbar, could have given a short lead to Jean-Louis Gasset’s players, for whom it will be necessary “make a feat in Italy”Thursday May 9.
The Vélodrome pushed very hard
The chants that tumble from the stands of the Vélodrome stadium can paralyze opposing players. On the other hand, it is a huge asset for the Marseillais, and which counted in their great performance. As in the previous rounds, against Benfica (1-0, 4-2 on penalties) and Villarreal (4-0).
In great difficulty on the road since the start of the season, which calls for caution before the return match, Olympique de Marseille succeeded in a first-rate exercise in its fortress. In the league, only Lille took more points, 36 against 33 at OM and Paris Saint-Germain. It was the exact opposite last season, with Croatian coach Igor Tudor.
Chancel Mbemba, essential scorer
Chancel Mbemba is a defender. We could write it a second time as it is not so obvious. Not that the Congolese was found wanting in his zone. It’s more that he easily shines in the opponent’s area. On Thursday, he scored a divine goal, giving a surprising trajectory to his equalizing shot. His fourth goal in this Europa League campaign, which makes him the most prolific Marseille defender in all European competitions. And his sixth of the season.
Quoted on the sidelines of the reception of the President of the DRC by the President of the Republic Emmanuel Macron, supporter of OM, Chancel Mbemba got himself another opportunity and he only suffered in his own area after the entry by Ademola Lookman. When he is on the pitch, the face of the Marseille team is transformed.
The Marseillais had a lot of chances
Barring a penalty shootout on Thursday May 9, Bergamo will need to score to reach a fourth Europa League final since 1999. The large number of chances in this first round is a real reason for hope. The incoming Azzedine Ounahi fired a shot on the crossbar, the most dangerous situation, but not the only one. The Italian goalkeeper, Juan Musso, had other cold sweats, notably against Faris Moumbagna, who pressed him well away from his area.
Barely coming on, Iliman Ndiaye was sharp, as was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang throughout the match. So many offensive weapons that Jean-Louis Gasset can use to unbalance the Lombards in a week. And, who knows, crown it with a European final “commando mission” of a hundred days.
