Olympique Marseille – LOSC Lille: Late Header Rescues Point For Marseille (1-1)

Lille’s 4-4-2 defensive block and well-timed pressing frustrated Marseille’s buildup throughout the match – leading the visitors to multiple midfield recoveries and effective offensive transitions. However, poor finishing and a confusing change of shape from Christophe Galtier late in the match would undo much of Lille’s good work, as they were forced to settle for a draw after a late Valère Germain header.
Tactical analysis and match report by K.T. Stockwell. 

Despite a multitude of chances, Marseille suffered a major setback, losing 2-0 to Saint-Étienne in the previous round. With Paris Saint-Germain experiencing a bad start to the season, every match has taken on added importance. Manager André Villas-Boas’s side's inability to convert in front of goal was highlighted by the absence of striker Dario Benedetto.

Fortunately for Marseille, the truculent Argentine was back from suspension and able to start against Lille. He was flanked by Marseille’s star-men, Dimitri Payet and Florian Thauvin, while new signing Yuto Nagatomo was given the start at left back in a 4-3-3 formation.

Lille were coming off two unconvincing wins, as manager Christophe Galtier’s side had yet to hit their stride this season. Forwards, Jonathan David and Burak Yilmaz had failed to score in three matches – unable to replicate talisman Victor Osimhen’s start to last season.

Nevertheless, Galtier stuck with his preferred 4-2-2-2 formation, with the aforementioned David and Yilmaz up top, supported by Luiz Araujo and Jonathan Bamba. In defense, Zeki Çelik was welcomed back into the fold, playing alongside captain José Fonte, Sven Botman and youngster Domagoj Bradarić. 

Lille dominate but fail to score
Lille opened . . .