OM – O’Riley & Højbjerg: the Danish duo that silenced Paris

The Vélodrome witnessed the birth of a duo

On Monday night, the boiling Vélodrome didn’t just celebrate the 1-0 win over PSG. It discovered a midfield pair finally living up to the promise: O’Riley and Højbjerg. Long criticized for their lack of impact, the two Danes delivered in style. In midfield, facing Ruiz and Vitinha, they imposed their law. Intensity, pressing, duels won, and clean recoveries: Paris suffered where it thought it reigned.

O’Riley, relentless workrate

Already noticed against Real Madrid, Matt O’Riley confirmed his outstanding workrate. More than 11 km covered, constant runs, precise distribution, and a genuine willingness to take responsibility. At the Bernabéu, he had looked timid. At the Vélodrome, he embraced his role as the dynamo. Technical and tireless, he set the tempo and proved he could be the driving force of this De Zerbi-style midfield.

Højbjerg, the boss they were waiting for

Alongside him, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg played his part: breaking up play, dictating direction, and bringing reassurance. Always well positioned, tough in challenges, he was the defensive metronome OM had been lacking. When Paris pushed forward, he stabilized the block and reorganized his teammates. A discreet leader, but an undeniable one. His leadership, already evident with the national team, was on full display at the Vélodrome.

Complementary, but not identical

So, has OM found its definitive double pivot? Hard to say so quickly. Yes, the Danish pair shone against a top-level opponent, where physical and mental intensity is at its peak. But against low blocks, other weapons will be needed. Angel Gomes, more creative and technical, represents that alternative. OM needs options: power and discipline against the big teams, finesse and imagination against defensive sides.

A precious asset for De Zerbi

And that’s exactly the strength of this OM 2025-26: variety. With O’Riley, Højbjerg, Gomes and others, De Zerbi can adapt his midfield depending on the opponent and the stakes. But this Monday, the Danish duo sent a clear message: Paris was shut down, and OM has finally rediscovered a pair capable of standing up to Europe’s best teams.

Verdict: O’Riley and Højbjerg may not be “the one true solution,” but they have already become a solid foundation. At the Vélodrome, on Monday night, Marseille may have found the backbone of its midfield for the big occasions.