Liverpool produced another authoritative display on the European stage as they swept aside Marseille with a convincing 3-0 victory at the Stade Vélodrome, further strengthening their push for a top-eight finish in the Champions League’s opening phase.
In an intimidating atmosphere, Arne Slot’s side showed maturity, composure and a clinical edge, controlling the contest from start to finish and rarely allowing their hosts to build sustained momentum.
The match began with an early flashpoint that briefly stirred the home crowd. Hugo Ekitike believed he had put Liverpool ahead after finishing from close range, but VAR quickly intervened to rule the effort out for offside. While the decision was correct, it underlined Marseille’s aggressive approach, as they pressed high and attempted to unsettle Liverpool early on.
However, once the initial intensity subsided, the visitors began to impose their superior technical quality and game management.
Liverpool’s growing dominance was finally rewarded just before half-time, and the breakthrough arrived in spectacular fashion. Dominik Szoboszlai took responsibility from a free kick and cleverly struck the ball low beneath the jumping wall, catching goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli completely off guard. It was a moment of real quality that shifted the tone of the game and highlighted Szoboszlai’s increasing influence within Slot’s system.
The Hungarian midfielder was central to everything Liverpool did well. He found pockets of space between the lines, demanded the ball under pressure and consistently drove his team forward. His goal felt symbolic, not only opening the scoring but also setting the standard for the rest of the performance. Szoboszlai’s authority and energy ensured Marseille were kept on the back foot for long periods.
After the break, the hosts attempted to mount a response. Mason Greenwood tested Alisson Becker with a powerful strike from distance, forcing the Brazilian into a sharp save that briefly lifted the Vélodrome crowd. Yet that moment proved fleeting. Liverpool remained calm and well organised, defending compactly and moving the ball with patience whenever Marseille tried to increase the tempo.
The second goal came as a result of sustained pressure rather than a single moment of brilliance. Jeremie Frimpong’s driven low cross created confusion in the penalty area, and amid the chaos, the ball ended up in the net via Facundo Medina, with the goal ultimately recorded as an own goal by Rulli. From there, the outcome felt largely inevitable. Liverpool dictated possession, limited Marseille to long-range efforts and closed down space intelligently.
Any remaining doubt was removed deep into stoppage time. Substitute Cody Gakpo was sent clear and showed great composure to curl his finish neatly into the corner, completing a polished and professional away performance. It was a goal that perfectly reflected Liverpool’s approach on the night: efficient, controlled and ruthless when opportunities arose.
This result further underlines Liverpool’s growing credentials in Europe under Arne Slot. The blend of defensive solidity and attacking fluidity is becoming increasingly natural, with leaders like Virgil van Dijk providing stability and players such as Szoboszlai driving standards higher. Performances like this suggest Liverpool are not just participants, but genuine contenders as the competition progresses.
