In Gennaro Gattuso’s first game as the manager of Olympique Marseille, AS Monaco proved to be a formidable opponent, securing a 3-2 victory and rising to the top of Ligue 1. The match was filled with excitement and goals, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Marseille started the game strongly, with two summer signings combining to score within the first minute. Iliman Ndiaye found the back of the net after receiving a lofted cross from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. However, Monaco quickly equalized just seven minutes later, courtesy of a low-driven shot from Maghnes Akliouche.
In an action-packed first 25 minutes, Monaco took the lead when Samuel Gigot volleyed in a cross from Ndiaye. But Marseille responded almost immediately, as Folarin Balogun unleashed a fierce strike into the bottom corner. The first half ended with both teams trying to catch their breath.
The second half started in a similar fashion, with Akliouche scoring his second goal of the match with a powerful half-volley. The match continued to be chaotic, with Vanderson’s last-ditch challenge denying Aubameyang an equalizer. Monaco had their chances too, but Wissam Ben Yedder’s effort was saved by Marseille’s goalkeeper, Pau López.
Akliouche, who was given his first league start of the season by coach Adi Hütter, was substituted to a standing ovation after an impressive performance. The second half was more cautious, resulting in six bookings for both teams. Monaco managed to hold on to their lead and secure all three points, extending Marseille’s winless away run in the league to seven games.
Despite the loss, there were positive signs for Marseille in Gattuso’s debut match. The team showcased their attacking prowess and fighting spirit, which bodes well for the future.