This Friday evening (8:45 PM), OM travels to Strasbourg for the opening of the 6th round of Ligue 1. After their feat against PSG, Roberto De Zerbi’s men must confirm. More than just an away game, it’s a crucial mental test to transform the euphoria of the Clasico into lasting momentum.
A top-of-the-table clash at stake
The picture is clear: Racing is co-leader of the league with 12 points, three ahead of OM (6th place). A Marseille victory would bring them level at the top, or even temporarily put them in first place. But history urges caution: last season, after an euphoric win in Lyon, the Olympians collapsed at La Meinau. De Zerbi hammered it home: “Strasbourg is more important than Ajax.” Message received.
De Zerbi suspended, Maldera takes charge
Banned from the bench after his red card against Paris, the Italian coach will follow the match from the stands. His loyal assistant Andrea Maldera will lead the team. Confident, De Zerbi joked: “The players might actually be calmer without me shouting in their ears.” Now it remains to prove that the game plan works even without him on the sidelines.
A fiery Meinau… but silent
A surprise leader, Strasbourg is nevertheless going through internal turmoil. The ultras have announced a total strike on cheering to protest against BlueCo management. After 63 consecutive sell-outs, the atmosphere will be icy: an opportunity for the Olympians’ voices to echo even louder. Squad-wise, Rosenior regains Högsberg but will have to do without Sylla, Nanasi and Enciso.
OM in solid mode
The signs are positive for Marseille. In two big games, OM has conceded only two goals – both from a penalty or free kick. Emerson Palmieri has blended into the team, Nayef Aguerd is establishing himself as the leader, and Timothy Weah brings valuable versatility, praised by his coach as “one of the best signings of the transfer window.” Up front, Greenwood will need to confirm his intensity and creativity over 90 minutes. Aubameyang and his relentless runs remain a key weapon.
Key duels to watch
- Emegha vs Aguerd/Balerdi: the Strasbourg striker, involved in 16 goals in 2025, will be the main threat. Aguerd will need to mark him tightly.
- Morera vs Emerson/Weah: already OM’s tormentor last year, his pace and runs in behind are a constant danger.
- Panichelli as a super-sub: the Argentine striker is a target man, deadly in the air.
Telling stats
- OM hasn’t won in Strasbourg since 2021.
- RCSA took 4 out of 6 points from us last season.
- Emegha already has 13 goals and 3 assists since January.
After Paris, Strasbourg. This trip will be a true test: OM can close the gap at the top and break their winless streak at La Meinau. Intensity, discipline and efficiency: three essential ingredients to turn the Clasico triumph into a springboard for an ambitious season.
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