OM - PSG (0-2) : OM go down to defeat
OM Africa HONOURED
For this 100th Classique, OM played in a 4-3-3 system. The defence was composed of Caleta-Car and Alvaro Gonzalez, with Sakai and Nagatomo in the flanks. In midfield, Rongier was back from injury and was back in the starting line-up together with Gueye and Kamara. Germain was in the attack surrounded by Thauvin on his right and Payet on the left. The Olympien goal was guarded by Mandanda, wearing the captain's armband. As a tribute to the African continent with which Olympique de Marseille has forged strong ties, the players wore a special shirt in honour of all these African countries.
FIRST HALF
While the Olympians were holding their own against the Parisians in the beginning of the match, they were surprised on a counter attack. Payet's corner cleared by the Parisian defence allowed Di Maria to recover the ball and send Mbappé towards the goal.
Despite the opening goal, the Olympians continued their pressing, a pressing which pushed Rico to clear in a hurry on several occasions. He found Gueye in his path, who unleashed a powerful shot, without thinking, out through the hand of the Parisian keeper. Unfortunately, on their second foray into the box, Icardi, with a lucky header, doubled the lead for Paris. OM were 2-0 down at the break.
SECOND HALF
Although trailing, the Olympians came back with the intention of reducing the score quickly. A good recovery by Thauvin allowed Kamara to attempt a shot, which was hit on target but was deflected into a corner by Rico. Shortly before the hour, Nasser Larguet made his first two changes by introducing Benedetto and Lirola in place of Germain and Nagatomo. In a match where opportunities were scarce, OM suffered a hard blow.
On a contact with Neymar, Alvaro Gonzalez twisted his knee. The Spaniard had the will to hold his place, but after a few minutes, he had to give up his place to Lucas Perrin. At the same time, Luis Henrique also came into play. The young Brazilian, bursting with energy on his right-hand side, shot low, but Rico, in two stages, grabbed the ball. Reduced to 10 after a red card for Dimitri Payet, our Olympians bowed out. They have an appointment with the French Cup on Wednesday with a trip to Auxerre.
