Lens Vs Marseille

Saturday evening will bring one of the most exciting encounters in Ligue 1 this weekend, as RC Lens play host to Olympique de Marseille at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis. This fixture has historically been a closely contested affair, and with both teams showing contrasting fortunes heading into the match, expectations are high for a thrilling battle.

The two clubs have faced each other 100 times in the history of Ligue 1, with Marseille slightly ahead in the win column. As of the latest head-to-head record, Marseille has secured 40 victories, just one more than Lens' 39. This narrow margin highlights the competitive nature of this rivalry, where every match is anticipated with intense passion from both sets of supporters.

Lens' Unfortunate Dip in Form

Under the stewardship of head coach Will Still, Lens had a strong start to the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season. Their campaign kicked off with an impressive unbeaten run, going through their first eight matches without a defeat. This solid start had many fans hopeful that Lens would continue to build on their achievements from the previous season, where they finished strong in the top half of the table and showed glimpses of their potential.

However, the early momentum was halted when Lens suffered two consecutive defeats just before the international break. The losses came at the hands of Lille and Paris Saint-Germain—two of the toughest teams in the league. Despite the disappointing results, there was a sense that Lens had been somewhat unlucky, particularly in their match against Lille. They had held their own for large parts of the game, but a few key moments led to their downfall. Meanwhile, few teams manage to take points from PSG, and therefore, those results were ultimately forgiven.

The most encouraging aspect of Lens' recent form came just before the international break, when they bounced back with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Nantes. The match was a testament to their resilience. Going into the final few minutes of the game 2-1 down, Lens appeared to be heading for another setback. However, goals from Hamzat Ojediran and Adrien Thomasson in quick succession flipped the game on its head, securing a vital three points for the Blood and Gold.

This comeback was particularly significant as it not only provided a much-needed victory but also kept them within striking distance of the top four. As it stands, Lens are just two points behind Lille, who occupy the fourth spot. However, the manner in which they conceded goals in their recent matches—particularly the two goals they allowed against Nantes—will raise concerns about their defensive fragility. In fact, Lens have now conceded four goals in their last two home matches, which is more than the total number of goals they allowed in their first seven home games combined.

Their defensive struggles could prove to be a major issue against Marseille's potent attacking lineup. The visitors come into this game with one of the most lethal offenses in Ligue 1, and Lens will need to tighten up at the back if they are to keep them at bay. The fact that Lens have won their last two home encounters with Marseille provides some solace, however. Should they emerge victorious once again, they would secure a third consecutive home win against the French giants for the first time since the 1980s, further solidifying their strong home form.

Marseille's Road to Redemption

In stark contrast to Lens' recent struggles, Marseille will be hoping to bounce back from a disappointing home defeat. The final match before the international break saw Roberto De Zerbi’s side suffer a humiliating 3-1 loss to Auxerre at the Vélodrome. Marseille were down by three goals at the break, and despite a late consolation, the performance was far from the standard expected of a team of their caliber.

It was a result that left many questioning the direction of the club, particularly given the high expectations that have followed De Zerbi’s appointment as manager. In the wake of this defeat, De Zerbi made a surprising comment, stating that he would be happy to resign following the loss. While such a statement raised eyebrows, the Marseille board has continued to back their manager. They have reaffirmed their confidence in De Zerbi despite the defeat, emphasizing that the club remains third in the league table after 11 games, and the team's ambitions for the season are still intact.

However, the loss to Auxerre has brought Marseille's once-comfortable position in the top four under threat. They now find themselves just nine points behind Paris Saint-Germain, who continue to set the pace at the top of Ligue 1. More concerning for Marseille is the fact that Lille, Lyon, Reims, and Lens are now hot on their heels, and another defeat could see them slip out of the top four altogether. This underscores the importance of Saturday’s match in Lens, where a positive result would help solidify their place in the Champions League spots.

On the road, Marseille’s form has been vastly improved. While their home performances have been disappointing, their away record has been nothing short of exceptional. With 15 points from six away games, Marseille currently boast the best away record in Ligue 1. In fact, only Barcelona have accumulated more away wins across Europe’s top five leagues this season. Their current run of six wins in their last seven Ligue 1 away games marks a remarkable turnaround for a team that won just three of their previous 21 away matches.

Marseille’s excellent form on the road will be crucial if they are to remain competitive in the race for European qualification, especially given their challenging run of fixtures to close out 2024. After facing Lens on Saturday, they will travel to Monaco and Lille in what promises to be a difficult sequence of games. Given their form away from home, however, Marseille will take confidence into these matches and be determined to extend their winning streak.

Tactical Battle: Lens vs Marseille

This match presents a fascinating tactical battle between two teams with distinct playing styles. Lens, under Will Still, have often been characterized by their solid defensive structure and disciplined approach. However, their recent slip-ups have highlighted vulnerabilities, especially when it comes to dealing with quick, clinical attacks. Still will be looking for his team to regain their defensive solidity, particularly at home, where they have traditionally been difficult to break down.

Marseille, on the other hand, are a team known for their attacking prowess under Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian manager has built a side that thrives on fast transitions and dynamic movement, especially in the final third. Despite their struggles at home, Marseille’s away form suggests they have found their rhythm on the road, and Lens will need to be prepared for the relentless attacking pressure that will come their way.

Key players for both teams will play a decisive role in the outcome of this match. For Lens, midfielder Adrien Thomasson will be crucial in providing creativity and linking up play in the attacking third. His ability to pick out key passes and unlock opposition defenses will be vital in breaking down Marseille’s defense. Similarly, Hamzat Ojediran, who has shown an eye for goal this season, could be the player to watch as he looks to exploit Marseille’s defensive weaknesses.

For Marseille, the spotlight will be on their star forward, who has been in superb form this season. His ability to stretch defenses and finish chances will be critical in breaking through Lens’ defense. Additionally, the midfield duo will need to control the tempo of the game and provide the necessary service to their attacking players.

As both teams prepare for this eagerly awaited encounter, the stakes are high for both Lens and Marseille. Lens will be hoping to build on their recent momentum and extend their unbeaten home record against Marseille, while the visitors will be aiming to recover from their disappointing home form and continue their strong run on the road. With both teams possessing formidable attacking talent and significant ambitions for the season ahead, this promises to be a thrilling encounter with major implications for the race to qualify for Europe.

Marseille's excellent away form, coupled with Lens' occasional defensive lapses, means that this match could go either way. However, the fact that Lens have recently enjoyed success against l'OM at home, combined with their desire to stay in touch with the top four, suggests that this game could be a closer contest than many expect.

With so much riding on this fixture, fans can expect a highly charged atmosphere at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, as both sides battle not just for points but for a psychological edge in the race for European qualification.