Marseille Progress To Europa League Semis With Penalty Shootout Win Over Benfica

Olympique de Marseille secured their spot in the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League after a tense 4-2 penalty shootout victory over SL Benfica at the Orange Vélodrome. The result marked Marseille’s continued unbeaten run at home in the competition for over five years, showcasing their resilience and determination on the European stage.

The match started with Marseille dominating, with Iliman Ndiaye and Chancel Mbemba coming close to breaking the deadlock early on. Leading goalscorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also posed a threat, narrowly missing the target with a fierce strike. Despite their attacking effort, Marseille couldn’t find a way past a resolute Benfica defense in the first half, leading to a goalless scoreline at halftime.

The second half saw Marseille pushing for a breakthrough, with claims for a penalty waved away after a potential handball by a Benfica player. Anatoliy Trubin, Benfica’s goalkeeper, made crucial saves to deny Marseille, including a spectacular one-handed stop from Geoffrey Kondogbia’s powerful effort. The tension mounted as both teams searched for a decisive goal to tip the balance in their favor.

It was Marseille who eventually found the breakthrough in the 79th minute, as Aubameyang’s precise cross was met by substitute Faris Moumbagna, who headed home past Trubin to level the aggregate scoreline. The goal forced the game into extra time, where both teams continued to create chances but were unable to find the back of the net.

With the score still deadlocked after 120 minutes, the match was decided by a tense penalty shootout. Marseille held their nerve as Di Maria and Antonio Silva missed their spot-kicks for Benfica, allowing Marseille to emerge victorious and progress to the semi-finals of the Europa League. The win puts Marseille one step closer to potentially lifting their first European trophy since their triumph in the UEFA Champions League in 1992/93.

The defeat for Benfica ends their impressive run, marking only the second loss in their last 10 matches. Marseille’s resilience and determination throughout the match showcased their strength as a team and their ability to perform under pressure on the European stage. As they prepare for the semi-finals against Serie A side Atalanta, Marseille will be looking to continue their impressive form and edge closer to Europa League glory.