Marseille defeated Metz 3-1 at the Orange Vélodrome, with Igor Paixao's second-half goal restoring their lead after Metz had briefly equalised.
Marseille secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over struggling Metz in a crucial Ligue 1 encounter. Igor Paixao's decisive strike early in the second half proved to be a turning point. This result solidified Marseille's position in the top four.
The hosts, Marseille, entered the match in solid fourth place, aiming to strengthen their European qualification bid. Metz, conversely, languished in 18th position. They desperately needed points to ignite their fight against relegation.
The game began with immediate attacking intent from Marseille. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang opened the scoring in the 13th minute. He converted a precise assist from Amine Gouiri. The Orange Vélodrome erupted as the home side took an early lead.
Marseille continued to press their advantage. They created several opportunities to extend their lead. Metz defended resolutely, absorbing waves of attacks. Their goalkeeper made key saves.
Metz struggled to create clear-cut chances against a dominant Marseille defence. The home team maintained control of possession. They looked comfortable heading into the break with their lead intact.
F. Medina received a yellow card for Marseille just before half-time. This was the only booking of the first period. Marseille held their one-goal advantage at the whistle.
The second half promised more action as Metz sought a way back into the game. Marseille aimed to consolidate their lead and secure the win. Both teams understood the importance of the next goal.
Marseille started the second half with renewed vigour. Igor Paixao doubled their lead in the 48th minute. Mason Greenwood provided an excellent assist, setting up Paixao perfectly. The home crowd celebrated what seemed like a comfortable cushion.
However, Metz responded almost immediately. Georgiy Tsitaishvili pulled one back for the visitors in the 49th minute. This sudden goal injected new life into the contest. Metz looked to build on their momentum.
The match became a more open and end-to-end affair. Marseille pushed for a third goal to restore their two-goal lead. Metz fought hard to find an equaliser, showing resilience. Substitutions were made by both managers to influence the outcome.
Hamed Junior Traorè sealed the victory for Marseille in the 90+3 minute. Greenwood once again delivered a superb assist from the flank. Traorè's late strike crushed any lingering Metz hopes and secured the points.
Marseille demonstrated their attacking prowess with 18 total shots, nine of which were on target. Their expected goals (xG) stood at an impressive 2.78, reflecting their dominance. Metz managed only six shots with an xG of 0.49. Marseille controlled 54% of possession throughout the match.
This 3-1 win strengthens Marseille's grip on fourth place in Ligue 1. They now boast 49 points from 28 games. Metz remains firmly in the relegation zone, facing a difficult battle for survival in the season's final stretch.
