Olympique de Marseille is facing quite a challenge. In order to keep their place as runners-up, OM must bring back something from the Classic. A perilous trip to the Parc des Princes. However, despite the level difference, the Phocaeans have some cards to show. In at least five areas, the Marseillais seem above Paris Saint-Germain.
William Saliba is the perfect example. Still facing Montpellier (2-0), the central defender does not hesitate to seek his vis-à-vis high on the ground. The pressing of the Olympian block is all-terrain and regular. All players participate in it in order to recover the ball as soon as possible.
After the first half hour, this system is particularly effective. Fatigue coming, the adversary has much more difficulty to compensate. Now we also see less physical elements like Amine Harit getting into it.
Another symbol of this fighting spirit. Mattéo Guendouzi fights from the first to the last minute with the same energy. Valentin Rongier has demonstrated throughout the season his great determination to recover balloons behind his back. Gerson never hesitates to participate in the defensive withdrawal. Even Dimitri Payet has been the author of crazy returns in the feet.
Often led this season, Jorge Sampaoli’s men are still trying to come back to score. A mind of steel which carried them towards this place of dolphin in spite of the contrary winds.
Jorge Sampaoli has often been criticized for his choices. The Argentinian tactician has sometimes offered dubious compositions. However, for two months, the OM coach has been doing everything right. He removed elements that were not very concerned and established an effective rotation. A system of 3 in the offensive phase and 4 to defend.
In addition, Sampaoli knows how to adapt to the opponent. His offensive animation and readjustments allow Marseille to beat any type of opponent. Victory on quick transitions against Montpellier (2-0) or on a low block against PAOK (2-1) for example. More peaceful, we feel that his impact on the team seems more important.
Over the past few weeks, OM have been creating a lot of chances. Against Montpellier (2-0), it was one of his worst shot totals of the season with 11 strikes. Usually, Marseille is around twenty attempts and 5 to 6 clear chances per game this season. Amine Harit and Dimitri Payet have created the most for a month.
The notorious difference with the PSG is in the efficiency. The Phocaeans may be creating more situations for themselves, but making a lot less of them. Only 17 shots for Paris against Clermont but for 6 goals. A significant difference in realism…
Since the start of the year, it’s been difficult to do better in Ligue 1. In terms of ball release and clean raises, Olympique de Marseille has exceeded all expectations. Very few balls swung in a hurry and a serenity to play close to his cages. Each element of the first two curtains can find the solution between the lines.
With professional midfielders like Rongier or Kamara defending against Montpellier (2-0), the launching pad is crazy. 89% of successful passes on average for Marseille. We are close to 95% in our own half of the field. A rigor to be put to the benefit of Sampaoli.
