The Reds secured a resounding 3-0 away victory over Olympique de Marseille at the Orange Vélodrome, marking a significant milestone: it extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches across all competitions since a heavy defeat to PSV Eindhoven in November. This result propelled Liverpool into the top eight of the expanded league phase standings—specifically climbing to fourth or a strong position—with 15 points, putting them firmly on course for automatic qualification to the round of 16 and avoiding the playoff round.
The historic aspect stemmed from this being one of the most dominant and fluid performances of Arne Slot’s tenure amid a turbulent 2025/26 campaign. Liverpool had struggled for consistency earlier in the season, particularly against low blocks in the Premier League, where they endured frustrating draws against promoted sides like Burnley, Leeds, and Sunderland—becoming the first reigning champions in Premier League history not to beat any of them at home. The Marseille game, however, showcased a different side: clinical finishing, tactical discipline, and control against an attack-minded Roberto De Zerbi outfit that offered space rather than sitting deep.
Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a “tremendous” free-kick, cleverly curling a low shot into the bottom corner after studying Marseille’s defensive wall in advance—a moment of quality that pundits like Steven Gerrard praised for its execution and confidence. An own goal from Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli doubled the lead in the second half, deflecting under pressure from Liverpool’s relentless probing. Substitute Cody Gakpo wrapped up the scoring late with a composed finish on the counter, sealing a clean sheet and a comprehensive win.
Mohamed Salah, back in the starting lineup after Africa Cup of Nations duty, played the full match and contributed to the pressing and link-up, though he was denied a goal in a late chance that Slot noted “would usually be a goal from him.” Virgil van Dijk’s leadership at the back was highlighted, including a standout 81st-minute interception described as “tremendous” by commentators, stepping out to cut off danger and symbolizing the defensive solidity that underpinned the night.
Yet Slot was visibly unhappy during and after the match, particularly with the build-up play and decision-making in a golden early chance inside the first 20 minutes. Reports indicate the Reds carved open Marseille with precise passing and movement, creating a clear opening for a forward—widely interpreted in coverage as involving Salah or another key attacker—who hesitated rather than shooting decisively when the team needed to seize momentum and take an early lead. For Slot, this moment encapsulated a recurring issue: Liverpool often excel at the “hard part” (creating opportunities through quality build-up) but falter in the final third with poor choices or reluctance to shoot, preventing them from turning dominance into more comfortable scorelines. The boss stressed post-match that ruthlessness in those moments is essential at the highest level, especially in transition and against teams that can punish any lapses.
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard weighed in during punditry duties, backing Slot’s frustration while praising the historic achievement and overall performance. Gerrard lauded the tactics as “spot on,” crediting Slot for deserving “a lot of praise and credit” in delivering such a convincing display under pressure. However, he echoed the manager’s concerns about end product, insisting that at the elite level, quality possession and creation alone aren’t enough without converting chances decisively. Gerrard highlighted Szoboszlai’s confidence and execution as a positive example, suggesting players must back themselves more ruthlessly. He also defended Slot against broader criticism, noting the Dutchman had “dealt with a lot different things” this season compared to his title-winning first campaign, and that some attacks on the manager had been “too harsh and too strong.”
The victory provided a much-needed boost after domestic frustrations, including fan boos following the Burnley draw. It demonstrated Slot’s system working effectively when opponents allow space, though the early hesitation remained a sore point. With the league phase nearing its conclusion and tougher tests ahead—including potential clashes that could define qualification—Slot’s demand for sharper decision-making aims to ensure Liverpool capitalize fully on their quality. Fans will hope this emphatic win signals a turning point, blending historic progress with the clinical edge needed for sustained success. (Word count: 852)
