Lorient

Habib Beye tried to surprise this Saturday afternoon at the Moustoir. By setting up a 3-4-2-1 formation, benching Weah, starting Abdelli due to Timber’s last-minute withdrawal, and trusting Traoré from the start, the Olympian coach took some risks. They all turned out disastrous.

Rulli 5/10

If the Argentinian hadn’t been there, how many goals would Marseille have conceded? He redirected Katseris’ shot (6) and made a great save against Dieng (49) and a classy stop against Pagis (62). However, it’s tough to blame him for the goals (28, 58), especially when he was left abandoned by his defense.

Pavard 2/10

Once again, as all too often since the start of his Marseille adventure, the world champion put in a performance unworthy of his status. Involved in both goals, he provided another “assist” for Katseris (28) while his positioning for the second goal was highly questionable (58). Also cautioned for a rough challenge on Pagis (56).

Balerdi 2/10

As usual, the game started well for the former captain. Alert in the air (11), repelling danger (13, 15), Balerdi was performing as expected. However, the Argentinian fell back into his bad habits. In a duo with Pavard, he was ridiculous for Katseris’ opening goal (28) and out of position for Dieng’s goal (58), with a alignment mistake each time.

Emerson 3/10

The third culprit in the afternoon’s trio of wrongdoers. For Katseris’ opener (28), he was simply nowhere to be found when Pavard provided the pass to Lorient. A costly mistake for the Italian, who did not embody comprehensive insurance at the Moustoir.

Traoré 3.5/10

Deployed in a new role on the right flank, he offered presence in his corridor and had a chance from Greenwood’s cross (37). Moved to the left after Weah’s introduction at halftime, he kept trying but never succeeded in anything decisive.

Hojbjerg 3.5/10

His shots were the only things that stood out; otherwise, the Dane was once again below par, especially in physical presence. While not helped by his partnership with Abdelli, the Olympians lost the midfield battle. Substituted by Vermeeren (76).

Abdelli 2.5/10

A surprise starter in place of Timber, Abdelli seemed surprised to be on the field as his performance was lackluster. Physically, the former Angevin was lacking, allowing Lorient to exploit his partnership with Hojbjerg. Replaced by Nadir (59) who got booked (74).

A good recovery against Katseris who was running behind him (6), reflecting his activity on the left flank, with his numerous runs often overlooked (or unseen) by his teammates. Challenged in a duel, he made way for Weah at halftime.

Greenwood 3/10

Started the match with some quite blatant fouls that could have earned him a card. The Englishman was one of the very few Olympians trying, but often hitting a wall. Dimmed in the second half.

Aubameyang 3/10

Pressed well, but with little support and few balls coming his way. To his credit, a well-placed header from Emerson’s cross (53) and a half-volley (55), both off target. Meager performance. Substituted for the youngster Ugo Lamare (76).

Weah 3/10

Introduced at halftime to try to revive Marseille, he struck a beautiful half-volley forcing Mvogo to a stop (50), but gradually faded. Booked for a late tackle on Tosin (90).

Beye: 2/10

The Match: 4/10

The Referee: 6/10

The Opponent: 7/10

[Context: Player ratings and analysis for Marseille’s performance in a match.] [Fact Check: This article evaluates individual player performances and the overall match, providing a critical overview of Marseille’s gameplay against Lorient.]