Olympique de Marseille suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League league phase at the Vélodrome. The Reds, led by Hugo Ekitiké and Dominik Szoboszlai, dominated an overwhelmed OM. This loss complicates the Olympians' qualification for the playoffs.
At the Stade Vélodrome, Olympique de Marseille was beaten 0-3 by Liverpool in the Champions League league phase on January 21, 2026. The Marseillais, coached by Roberto De Zerbi, could not compete with the English side, which was not irresistible according to Le Figaro's editorial team.
Hugo Ekitiké, formerly of Reims and PSG, shone for Liverpool. Returning to the Vélodrome, the French striker played with his back to goal, creating spaces and linking with midfield. A goal was disallowed for offside in the first half, and he hit the post in the second. Substituted at the 79th minute for Cody Gakpo, who sealed the win in added time.
Dominik Szoboszlai also excelled. The Hungarian, a pillar of Arne Slot's system, scored from a clever free kick under the wall just before halftime, and provided an assist to Ekitiké for his shot off the post. His midfield impact overwhelmed OM.
For Marseille, the verdict is harsh: the Olympians lacked tools, with no movement or precision. De Zerbi's plan to unsettle Virgil van Dijk seemed absent. Riwad Salem Al-Dawsari Gouiri and Mason Greenwood, heroes against Angers on Saturday, were ghostly. Gouiri had only one on-target shot saved by Alisson; Greenwood briefly woke up but had no real impact.
Benjamin Pavard, starting at right-back, had a tough night. Ball losses, at fault for Ekitiké's disallowed goal, beaten in duels, he received a yellow card for pushing, suspending him for Bruges.
Mohamed Salah, back from the AFCON, was unrecognizable with just 28 touches and missed chances.
OM sits 19th and faces Bruges under pressure for playoff qualification. Liverpool solidifies its top-8 position.
