Ludovic Ajorque’s first-half double propelled Stade Brestois 29 to a stunning 2-0 victory over Marseille at Stade Francis-Le Blé.
Stade Brestois 29 delivered a major upset on February 20, 2026, defeating a high-flying Marseille side 2-0 in Ligue 1. Striker Ludovic Ajorque proved the difference, scoring both goals before halftime, earning a stellar 9.0 rating.
Entering the match, Marseille, sitting fourth with 40 points, aimed to solidify their European push. Brest, ranked 12th with 27 points, sought to distance themselves from the relegation zone. The hosts came in with a DWDLL form, eyeing a crucial home win.
The game started with immediate intent from the home side. Ludovic Ajorque opened the scoring in the 10th minute, pouncing on an early opportunity to give Brest the lead. It was a clinical finish, catching the Marseille defense off guard.
Ajorque was not done. Just 19 minutes later, in the 29th minute, he struck again. A well-placed pass from Hugo Magnetti set up the striker, who guided the ball past the goalkeeper for his second goal. Stade Francis-Le Blé erupted, sensing a special night.
Marseille struggled to find their rhythm despite the early setbacks. Their attempts to push forward lacked cutting edge in the final third. Brest’s defense, marshalled by Brendan Chardonnet, remained disciplined, protecting their early advantage effectively.
At halftime, Brest held a commanding two-goal lead. Marseille faced a significant challenge and needed a dramatic shift in performance. Tactical adjustments were expected from the visitors to turn the tide in the second period.
Marseille made an immediate change, with Arthur Vermeeren replacing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at 46 minutes. The substitution aimed to inject more energy into their attack. However, Brest maintained their defensive resolve, with goalkeeper Grégoire Coudert making vital saves.
The second half saw Marseille dominate possession, pushing for a breakthrough. Their frustration grew evident as yellow cards accumulated for Pierre-Emile Højbjerg in the 67th minute and Quentin Timber in the 79th minute. Ajorque also received a booking at 71 minutes.
Marseille’s best chance came in the 82nd minute when they earned a penalty. Mason Greenwood stepped up, but his effort from the spot missed the target, effectively squashing any hope of a comeback. This was a pivotal moment in the match's narrative.
Despite enjoying 68% of possession and firing 17 shots, Marseille could not convert. Brest, with only 32% possession and 12 shots, proved far more efficient. The expected goals (xG) further highlighted Marseille's missed chances, recording 1.44 xG compared to Brest's 1.13 xG.
This vital 2-0 victory allows Stade Brestois 29 to climb the Ligue 1 table, easing pressure after a mixed run of form. For Marseille, it represents a missed opportunity to gain ground on the top three, leaving them to reflect on a night of offensive futility.
