Liverpool put in a fantastic performance to trounce Olympique de Marseille 3-0 in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Beyond bragging rights, this win is a major step toward qualifying for the tournament’s knockout stages. The match took place at the Stade Vélodrome, showcasing Liverpool’s resurgence as they extended their unbeaten streak to 13 matches across all competitions.
The Reds headed into the clash with talisman Mohamed Salah starting for the first time since November. Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, took an interesting tactical step. He had to shift Joe Gomez to the middle of the defence as Ibrahima Konate was not available for personal reasons. That tactical switch worked wonders as this team showed poise and command from start to finish.
Key Moments in the Match
Against the run of play, just before halftime, Liverpool equalized. When Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up to take his free kick, the low shot slid underneath the Marseille wall and into the goal. This well-placed shot offered Liverpool a deserved lead after they had dominated possession yet struggled to convert opportunities in the first half.
Three minutes into second-half stoppage time, Szoboszlai had one more impact on the match, using a subtle flick to provide Ryan Gravenberch with a long-waited match-winner. Gravenberch then set up Cody Gakpo, with the Dutchman finishing coolly to make it three goals for Liverpool and three points secured.
Liverpool’s ability to maintain pressure and seize critical moments highlighted their growing confidence and sharpness following a challenging start to the season.
“We always say after a win or good result to keep momentum. But Bournemouth are a difficult team to beat, play very good football, and we have to be more than ready. We will recover and go again.” – Arne Slot
A Step Closer to Knockout Stages
Liverpool took advantage to put together a confident-looking 15 points. This series of strong performances sees them secure a top eight spot for 2024. Their upcoming match against Qarabag at home presents another opportunity for them to secure direct qualification for the Champions League last 16.
The win against Marseille was Liverpool’s biggest victory. It just highlighted how impactful they were in controlling the game and capitalizing on what they had. The team has shown notable improvement in recent weeks, moving past earlier struggles and showcasing their potential on the European stage.
Alisson Becker even helped to keep the clean sheet. He produced an important stop from Marseille’s Amine Gouiri just minutes into what would be a nightmare performance. His form played an important role in Liverpool’s newfound defensive stability, protecting their goal and enabling them to commit more men forward.
Looking Ahead
While Liverpool looks forward to their next match against Bournemouth, they have one eye on the threat still ahead. Bournemouth are always a tricky opposition with their physicality and doggedness. Slot underscored the importance of being thoroughly prepared for this meeting. He hopes their preparation will prove to be the difference in extending their successful run even further.
During this hot streak, Liverpool have moved within striking distance of a spot in the 2024 Champions League. Beyond the pass rush, it has returned a belief that was previously lost to both supporters and athletes. The team hopes to continue this positive momentum. This is a team coping with the pressure of critical matches at home and in European away.
“It’s tough, they played a good game, we were not well in the first half. We tried our best, but it’s very tough; they’re used to playing like this.” – Leonardo Balerdi
