It's a wasted opportunity for OM.
The Marseillais, fifth with 56 points, had the opportunity to widen the gap in the standings against their direct opponents in a European qualification.
Lens, sixth with the same number of points, had notably lost to the Mastiffs on Friday.
But the players of Sampaoli fell on solid Stéphanois.
The Greens shaped this victory in the first period, multiplying the offensive phases and the chances in front of Mandanda's goal. Domination materialized in the 43rd minute. From the left side, Khazri sent a cross towards Nordin, well installed at the far post. Balerdi missed his defensive gesture and the Stéphanois could then adjust Mandanda closely with a left strike.
In the second half, and while OM stepped up, ASSE was able to count on its young goalkeeper Étienne Green.
“We really made collective efforts.
We made a big start, we put in a big pressing and we managed to hold the whole match so it's perfect.
The whole team did the job, ”relished the 20-year-old doorman at the microphone of Canal +.
A precious success for the Greens who pocketed three points and have undoubtedly ensured their maintenance in Ligue 1.
📈 Discover the numbers of the Greens' short victory during #ASSEOM ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/2sOGNvqlgR
- Ligue 1 Uber Eats (@ Ligue1UberEats) May 9, 2021
Rennes can take 5th place
“It was not a good game at all, at all levels.
I think we were less in place than usual.
Saint-Etienne managed to score the first goal.
In these matches, it is often the one who scores first who wins.
We didn't manage to turn the tide yet we tried to change two or three things at half-time.
We occupied the field less well and Saint-Etienne had a solid match, ”regretted Valentin Rongier.
Olympique de Marseille is now under threat from Stade Rennais, which hosts PSG this Sunday evening.
Bruno Genesio's men, 7th with 54 points before the start of the meeting, can recover 5th place in the standings.