Marseille Faces Must-Win Champions League Clash Against Newcastle United
OM’s Champions League hopes hang in the balance as they prepare to host Newcastle United, with a crucial victory needed to reignite their European campaign.
Olympique de Marseille (OM) finds itself at a critical juncture in its Champions League journey. Following a 2-2 draw against SCO Angers in Ligue 1, the team has demonstrated a resurgence in domestic form, securing wins against AJ Auxerre (1-0), Stade Brestois (3-0), and a dominant 5-1 victory over OGC Nice. This impressive run has propelled them to 2nd place in the Ligue 1 standings, just two points behind league leader Paris Saint-Germain. However, their European performance has been markedly different.
OM has struggled in the Champions League, suffering three defeats in their first four matches against Real Madrid (2-1), Sporting CP (2-1), and Atalanta Bergamo (0-1). Currently outside the top 24 in the league phase, Tuesday’s match against Newcastle United represents a pivotal opportunity to salvage their European ambitions. “They no longer have the right to make mistakes if they want to stay in the race to qualify for the play-offs,” a source close to the team stated.
Newcastle United’s European Strength Contrasts with Domestic Form
Newcastle United arrives at the Stade Vélodrome in a contrasting position. While experiencing a more challenging run in the Premier League – currently sitting in 14th position despite reaching the Carabao Cup quarter-finals – the Magpies have excelled in European competition. They’ve secured victories against Union Saint-Gilloise (4-0), SL Benfica (3-0), and Athletic Bilbao (2-0), with their only defeat coming against FC Barcelona (2-1). Recently, Eddie Howe’s side found form with a 2-1 win over Manchester City, signaling a potential shift in momentum.
Injury Concerns Plague Marseille Ahead of Key Match
OM will be without several key players for this Champions League fixture. Amur Murillo, Nayef Aguerd, Facundo Medina, and Amine Gouiri are all sidelined with injuries. Ruben Blanco, Pol Lirola, and Neal Maupay are not included on the UEFA list. However, there is positive news with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, rested last Friday, expected to return to the midfield alongside Geronimo Rulli in goal. The team received a further boost with the return of Timothy Weah and Leonardi Balerdi, while Geoffrey Kondogbia delivered a convincing performance in midfield, and Igor Paixao, Mason Greenwood, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang all contributed offensively in their recent Ligue 1 victory.
Newcastle United Boasts Strong Midfield and Attacking Options
Newcastle United will be without Yoane Wissa due to injury, but Eddie Howe can rely on a solid defense featuring Malick Thiaw and Fabian Schär. The midfield pairing of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes provides a strong foundation, and the return of Anthony Gordon, who has already scored four Champions League goals, adds firepower to the attack. Nick Woltemade, who recently scored three goals for the German national team, is also expected to feature.
Goals Expected at the Stade Vélodrome
This Champions League encounter promises to be a thrilling contest. While OM has been dominant in Ligue 1, their struggles in Europe are well-documented. Newcastle United, firmly established in the top eight of the league phase, will be looking to solidify their position. Analysts predict a high-scoring affair, with a forecast of more than 2.5 goals in the match.
Betclic Offers Champions League Bonus for Marseille-Newcastle
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