MARSEILLE – Liverpool cruised to a 3-0 win away to Marseille in the UEFA Champions League league phase on 21 January 2026, at the Orange Vélodrome. The three points lifted Arne Slot’s side to fourth in the table and strengthened their push for automatic qualification for the last 16.
The scoreline, Marseille vs Liverpool 0-3, reflected Liverpool’s sharp finishing and calm defending against a Marseille team still searching for steady form under their current set-up. Mohamed Salah returned to the starting XI, but it was Dominik Szoboszlai who produced the standout moment.
The opening half was scrappy at times, with chances at both ends and little rhythm. Marseille believed they had gone ahead in the 23rd minute when Hugo Ekitike finished a move that involved Salah, but VAR ruled it out for offside.
Liverpool looked more settled as the half went on, then struck right at the end. From a free kick just outside the box, Szoboszlai outsmarted the wall by sliding the ball low underneath the jump. Gerónimo Rulli reacted late, and the shot crept into the bottom corner for 1-0 in the 45+1st minute.
Liverpool stayed on top after the interval and made it 2-0 in the 72nd minute, helped by an own goal. Jeremie Frimpong whipped in a dangerous cross, and Rulli, under pressure, ended up turning it into his own net. Marseille tried to respond but lacked a clear threat, while Liverpool stayed compact and organised.
The visitors wrapped it up in stoppage time. Cody Gakpo came on late and made it count, bending a tidy finish into the bottom corner in the 90+2nd minute. Ryan Gravenberch provided the assist, and Liverpool left with a clean sheet and a fully deserved win.
Slot’s side earned praise for a composed, no-nonsense display. Szoboszlai’s set-piece quality made the difference early, and Gakpo’s finish put a shine on the result.
Liverpool match statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals | 3 |
| Scorers | Szoboszlai (45+1′), Rulli (OG 72′), Gakpo (90+2′) |
| Possession | ~58% |
| Shots (on target) | 14 (6) |
| xG (Expected Goals) | 1.49 |
| Passes completed | High |
| Clean sheet | Yes |
Liverpool were ruthless when openings arrived and kept Marseille quiet for long spells.
Marseille match statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals | 0 |
| Possession | ~42% |
| Shots (on target) | 9 (3) |
| xG (Expected Goals) | 0.88 |
| Big chances missed | Several |
| Discipline | Solid but ineffective |
Marseille showed intent in patches, but errors at the back and wasted chances cost them. Their Champions League campaign remains tough, with the side still sitting outside the top eight.
For Liverpool, this win boosts belief and adds weight to their progress in the new Champions League format. They are building a solid points total and look well placed for the knockout rounds, while Marseille needs a quick reset.
It was another reminder of Liverpool’s level on European nights, even in a hostile setting like the Stade Vélodrome. Supporters will hope this performance kicks off a strong run in both the league and Europe.
