Strasbourg launch stunning late comeback, securing a 2-2 draw with a stoppage-time penalty to deny Marseille a crucial home victory.
Marseille threw away a two-goal lead as Strasbourg staged a dramatic late comeback at the Orange Vélodrome. A penalty deep into stoppage time secured a thrilling 2-2 draw on Valentine's Day.
Fourth-placed Marseille entered the match seeking to consolidate their European spot. They sat on 39 points, aiming to extend their lead over rivals. Seventh-placed Strasbourg, with 30 points, aimed to close the gap.
Marseille started brightly, showing early intent. In the 14th minute, Mason Greenwood opened the scoring. Amine Gouiri provided a precise assist, allowing Greenwood to fire past the Strasbourg goalkeeper.
The home side looked comfortable after the early goal. Strasbourg struggled to create clear opportunities. Marseille dictated play for much of the first half, pushing for a second goal.
However, Marseille collected two yellow cards before halftime. Benjamin Pavard was booked in the 26th minute for a clear foul. Nayef Aguerd also saw yellow in the 42nd minute for holding an opponent.
Marseille held a deserved lead at the interval. Strasbourg needed a significant tactical shift and increased intensity. The second half promised a contrasting battle as both teams sought control.
Marseille quickly doubled their advantage after the restart. Just two minutes into the second half, in the 47th minute, Amine Gouiri scored a clinical goal. He converted from close range, extending the lead to 2-0.
Strasbourg responded with strategic substitutions to shift momentum. S. El Mourabet entered the game at 46 minutes. Later, Julio Enciso and L. Hogsberg were introduced around the 63rd minute.
These changes sparked a comeback for the visitors. Sebastian Nanasi pulled one back for Strasbourg in the 73rd minute. M. Godo provided the assist, injecting belief into the away team.
Strasbourg then pressed hard in the closing moments. Their persistence paid off in the seventh minute of added time. J. Panichelli calmly converted a dramatic penalty, snatching a point for Strasbourg.
Strasbourg registered a higher expected goals (xG) of 2.02, exceeding Marseille's 1.46. The visitors also had more total shots (12 to 10) and dominated possession with 56%. Marseille managed more shots on target (6 to 5).
This dramatic 2-2 draw denies Marseille two crucial points in their pursuit of European qualification. Meanwhile, Strasbourg will view this hard-fought away point as a valuable morale boost.
