Olympique de Marseille began their pre-season preparations with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over local rivals Nîmes at the Stade Vélodrome on 31 July 2026. The friendly, played in front of a reduced but passionate crowd, gave new Marseille boss Jean-Louis Gasset a chance to assess his squad’s shape and intensity ahead of the Ligue 1 season.

Match Overview

Marseille dominated possession from the start but found Nîmes stubborn in defence. The visitors, playing in Ligue 2 this season, took a surprise lead against the run of play midway through the first half. Marseille responded quickly before the break through a stunning individual effort, and then took control after half-time, scoring the winner early in the second period. Despite late pressure, Nîmes could not find an equaliser, and OM held on for a 2-1 win.

Key Moments

• 18th minute: Nîmes stunned the home crowd by taking the lead – winger Moussa Koné cut inside from the left and fired a low shot into the far corner.
• 35th minute: Marseille equalised in spectacular fashion. Amine Harit received the ball 25 yards out, turned his marker, and unleashed a curling strike into the top corner.
• 51st minute: The winner came from a set piece – Chancel Mbemba rose highest to meet a Dimitri Payet corner, powering a header past the Nîmes goalkeeper.
• 75th minute: Nîmes almost levelled when a free kick struck the crossbar, but Marseille goalkeeper Pau López scrambled to clear the rebound.

Tactical Story

Marseille deployed a 4-3-3 formation, pushing their full-backs high to create width. The midfield trio of Valentin Rongier, Jordan Veretout, and Amine Harit controlled the tempo but sometimes lacked penetration against Nîmes’ compact 5-4-1 defensive block. The equaliser from Harit showcased individual brilliance, while the winning goal highlighted the importance of set-piece efficiency – an area Gasset has emphasised in training. Nîmes relied on quick transitions and direct balls to Koné, but their attacking threat faded as the half wore on.

Standout Players

• Amine Harit (Marseille): The Moroccan playmaker was at his creative best, scoring a brilliant equaliser and orchestrating attacks with his dribbling.
• Chancel Mbemba (Marseille): Commanding at the back and decisive in the opposition box – his headed winner proved the difference.
• Moussa Koné (Nîmes): A constant threat on the counter, his goal and movement troubled the Marseille defence throughout the first half.

What It Means

This friendly serves as a solid foundation for Marseille’s pre-season schedule. The ability to come from behind and control large spells will encourage the coaching staff. Nîmes, despite the loss, showed they can compete with higher-level opposition and will take heart from their first-half display. Both teams now have a clearer picture of their strengths and areas to improve as the new season approaches.