The Europa League semifinal clash between Marseille and Atalanta ended in a 1-1 draw in the first leg held in France on Thursday.
Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca opened the scoring early in the game, stunning the packed Velodrome crowd. However, Marseille’s Chancel Mbemba quickly responded with an impressive strike from outside the box to level the score.
With the match ending in a draw, both teams head into the second leg in Bergamo next Thursday with everything to play for. Atalanta, aiming to reach their first-ever European final, is considered a favourite.
Marseille, making their third European semifinal appearance in seven years, have been formidable at home this season, with only Paris Saint-Germain managing to defeat them at the Velodrome over 90 minutes.
Despite Marseille’s strong home record, they have struggled away from home this season. Their journey to the semifinals is commendable, considering they are currently outside the European places in Ligue 1 and have undergone coaching changes.
Atalanta, who impressed by defeating Liverpool in the quarterfinals, took the lead in the 11th minute through Scamacca. Marseille quickly responded, and Mbemba’s goal brought them back into the game.
Marseille had opportunities to take the lead, notably through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, but failed to capitalise. Azzedine Ounahi came close to scoring as well, hitting the post late in the second half.
As Marseille aims for another shot at the Europa League title, they will rue missed chances while hoping for a strong performance in the second leg to secure a spot in the final, scheduled to be held in Dublin later this month.