(Ligue 1 2023/2024): Highlights REIMS - MARSEILLE

Marseille knew a win would put them in pole position for a top-six finish and a place in Europe. They travelled to Champagne in hope of extending their four-match winning streak against Reims. Their host though, winless at six, and yet Junya Ito stung the palms of Paolo Lopez to offer the visitors an early threat. Reims had lost their last four against Marseille. They could have been behind again if not for Ivan Djuf. Brilliant save to deny Ismaila Sar. The Senegalese striker sneaking away with Djuf to the rescue. Marseille had not registered a clean sheet in any of the last 90 Ligue 1 Uber Eats away games and they wouldn't manage one here. Martial Manezzi celebrated as if he turned in Ito's cross. Having scored at the weekend, it wasn't the midfielder again. Cancel and Bemba passed his own goalkeeper. Given Marseille's failed to score in six previous away days, they faced an uphill struggle with Reims' other Japanese star Nakamura then to try and swinging in a second. Woodwork coming to Marseille's rescue. Just one shot on target all first half. Finally got another sight of goal into the second half. Deflected effort seeing it rise up but Djuf again denying a Senegalese. This time Pape Gueye. Lopez was happy to see this one flash past from Nakamura. France kept probing. Strike from Reda Cadre containing the glum face on Jean-Louis Gassi. They were struggling to create any chances in a hope to face a return to Europe. It's Cadre just over the bar. The German certainly trying his luck. Well Marseille with just two wins on the road all season. They should have been dead and buried. Chance missed by Omar Diakite. Marseille looking for a late little bit of hope. Given they started the night three points behind Lens and Lyon for the top six. Flames for a late penalty turn down. Maxime Bussy off the bench. His arm not used but Vance not used to winning. Back with that victorious feeling. The fans certainly enjoyed it. Marseille another horror day away from the Orange Velodrome. Three points behind Lens and Lyon. They'll need both to lose and win at Loire to face a return to continental football.