Marseille 0-3 Liverpool: Szoboszlai, Frimpong, and Gakpo secure dominant UCL win | OneFootball

Liverpool strengthened their claim for automatic qualification to the UEFA Champions League last 16 with a convincing 3-0 victory away to Olympique de Marseille.

The result lifted Arne Slot’s side into fourth place in the league-phase table and provided a timely contrast to their more subdued recent performances in the Premier League.

In a charged atmosphere at Stade Velodrome, Liverpool delivered a controlled and mature European display.

Mohamed Salah returned to the starting line-up and played his part as Liverpool dominated long spells of the contest.

The visitors settled quickly and were comfortable in possession during the opening exchanges.

Clear chances were initially limited, but Liverpool carried the greater threat.

The breakthrough arrived in first-half stoppage time through a moment of invention from Dominik Szoboszlai.

From a central free-kick, the midfielder caught Marseille unprepared by rolling the ball under the jumping wall and beyond Geronimo Rulli.

It was a goal that reflected Liverpool’s composure and intelligence rather than brute force.

Marseille offered little in response before the interval and were fortunate to trail by only one goal.

The home side emerged with greater intent after the restart and briefly tested Liverpool’s defensive resolve.

Alisson Becker was required to deny Mason Greenwood, while Hamed Traore failed to capitalise on a promising opening.

Liverpool weathered that spell and gradually reasserted their authority.

Hugo Ekitike struck the woodwork as the visitors threatened to extend their lead.

The second goal arrived midway through the second half and effectively decided the contest.

Jeremie Frimpong’s burst to the byline caused panic in the Marseille defence, with his low cut-back deflecting off Rulli and into the net.

Liverpool’s control was evident as the game entered its closing stages.

They continued to limit Marseille, who lead Ligue 1 in goals scored, to half chances and speculative efforts.

The visitors added gloss to the scoreline in stoppage time.

Substitute Cody Gakpo curled a precise finish into the far corner to complete a comprehensive win.

Virgil van Dijk marked his 350th appearance for Liverpool with a commanding performance at the heart of the defence.

Joe Gomez partnered him in central defence, deputising seamlessly in the absence of Ibrahima Konate.

Liverpool have now extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 13 matches.

More significantly, the victory places them firmly on course to avoid the Champions League play-off round.

They will host Qarabag at Anfield next week knowing another positive result could secure a top-eight finish.