By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 22 January 2026 - Liverpool secured a 3-0 victory away at Olympique de Marseille, putting themselves firmly back in contention for a Champions League round of 16 place.
The result was one of the most convincing performances by the Reds in this season’s group stage, and it could prove crucial as the race for automatic qualification intensifies.
Liverpool arrived at the Stade Vélodrome with their Champions League campaign still very much alive but needing a strong result to keep automatic qualification on track. They delivered just that with a composed and clinical performance against a Marseille side also vying for European survival.
The goals came from a mix of set-piece nous, fortune, and late composure:
- Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a clever free-kick right before half-time, slipping the ball under the wall and past the goalkeeper.
- An unfortunate own goal by Marseille keeper Gerónimo Rulli doubled the lead in the second half after a dangerous Liverpool attack.
- Cody Gakpo wrapped up the victory in stoppage time with a calm finish to seal the 3-0 scoreline.
One moment of drama earlier in the match saw Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike’s goal ruled out for offside after a VAR check, a key intervention that stopped what could have been an even earlier lead.
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With this win, Liverpool climbed into fourth place in their group, moving within reach of an automatic spot in the Champions League knockout phase. They are now well-placed heading into the final matchday, where a home win against Qarabag would secure their place in the top eight and guarantee last-16 football.
For Marseille, the loss means their European hopes now hinge on a positive result in their final game against Club Brugge if they are to stay in contention for a playoff spot.
Liverpool also welcomed Mohamed Salah back into the starting lineup after he returned from Africa Cup of Nations duty, adding offensive experience and creativity to the side.
Under manager Arne Slot, the Reds have now extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches across competitions, a sign that momentum is returning even if domestic form has been mixed.
