Liverpool moved a step closer to the Champions League Round of 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Olympique de Marseille at a hostile Stade Vélodrome. A masterclass in efficiency saw Arne Slot’s side weather an early storm before dismantling the French giants, thanks to a stunning Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick and a late Cody Gakpo strike.
Szoboszlai Breaks the Deadlock at the Vélodrome
The encounter began with high intensity, as Marseille thought they had taken an early lead, only for VAR to intervene and disallow the goal for offside. Despite the home side’s pressure, Liverpool’s defense, anchored by Alisson Becker, remained composed.
The breakthrough arrived just before the interval. In the 44th minute, Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up for a free-kick and cleverly struck the ball beneath the jumping Marseille wall. The low drive caught goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli off guard, tucking into the bottom corner to give the Reds a vital lead heading into the break.
Defensive Resilience and a Fortuitous Second
Marseille pushed for an equalizer in the second half, with Hugo Ekitiké coming closest when his powerful effort rattled the post. However, Liverpool’s midfield control, bolstered by the return of Mohamed Salah, eventually wore down the hosts.
The game was effectively put to bed in the 72nd minute through a stroke of luck. Jeremie Frimpong, surging down the right flank, delivered a dangerous cross that deflected off Facundo Medina and goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli before trickling over the line. While credited as a Rulli own goal, the play highlighted Liverpool’s relentless threat from wide areas.
Victory in the Vélodrome 💪🔴 #UCL pic.twitter.com/w97w5VMjvN
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 21, 2026
Gakpo Wraps Up the Points
With Marseille committed to attack, Liverpool exploited the gaps in stoppage time. Ryan Gravenberch led a lightning-fast counter-attack, feeding substitute Cody Gakpo, who calmly finished to make it 3-0.
The result leaves Liverpool in a prime position to secure a direct spot in the knockout stages, while Marseille faces a tough battle to remain in playoff contention.
Wilson Gaspar is a football analyst covering the UEFA Champions League, focusing on match previews, tactical reviews, and the performance of Europe’s top clubs throughout the competition.
