In a thrilling display of attacking football, Olympique de Marseille showcased their prowess on Sunday, April 27, 2025, defeating Stade Brestois 29 4-1 at the Stade Vélodrome. The match, part of the 31st round of Ligue 1, was highlighted by a stunning hat-trick from Amine Gouiri, who proved instrumental in securing the vital three points for his team.
With this emphatic win, Marseille not only reaffirmed their ambitions for UEFA Champions League qualification but also reclaimed second place in the Ligue 1 McDonald's standings, moving two points ahead of Lille OSC. The victory marks Marseille's second consecutive win, a much-needed boost after a series of inconsistent performances.
Gouiri, who joined Marseille during the winter transfer window, opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a perfectly placed low shot after a well-constructed play. Receiving a floating cross from Luis Henrique, Gouiri controlled the ball expertly before slotting it past Brest's goalkeeper Grégoire Coudert. This goal set the tone for what would be an electrifying evening.
However, the match took an unexpected turn when Brest equalized in the 26th minute. Abdallah Sima, on loan from Brighton, capitalized on a corner situation, scoring from close range after a rebound off the crossbar. This setback momentarily rattled the home side, but they quickly regained their composure.
Marseille responded emphatically just before half-time. In the 37th minute, Mason Greenwood unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, which took a deflection off a Brest defender, finding the back of the net and restoring Marseille's lead at 2-1. The goal marked Greenwood's 19th of the season, showcasing his importance to the team's attacking lineup.
Then came the moment of magic that fans will remember for years to come. Just before the half-time whistle, Gouiri scored his second goal with an acrobatic overhead kick that left the crowd in awe. After controlling a cross from Greenwood with his chest, he executed a perfect bicycle kick, sending the ball soaring past Coudert to make it 3-1. This stunning goal not only highlighted Gouiri's technical skill but also solidified his place as a key player for the team.
As the second half progressed, Gouiri continued to shine. In the 63rd minute, he completed his hat-trick, receiving a precise through ball from Adrien Rabiot and calmly finishing underneath the advancing Coudert. This goal marked Gouiri's third of the match and his seventh since joining the club, further solidifying his reputation as a fan favorite.
Throughout the match, Marseille displayed a blend of clinical finishing and solid team play, with 62% possession and four shots on target. Despite a shaky start, they managed to control the game, especially after Gouiri's spectacular overhead kick, which seemed to deflate the Brest side.
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi praised his team's performance, particularly highlighting Gouiri's contribution. "Amine has been exceptional for us since he arrived. His ability to score and create chances makes him a crucial part of our squad," De Zerbi stated post-match. The coach also noted the importance of this victory in the context of the ongoing battle for Champions League qualification, with several teams vying for the top spots.
As the final whistle blew, the Vélodrome erupted in celebration, with fans chanting Gouiri's name. The Algerian international, who now has 14 caps and 6 goals for his national team, has proven to be a key player for Marseille, dispelling any doubts about his ability to perform at this level.
Looking ahead, Marseille will face a challenging encounter against Lille OSC next week, a match that could significantly impact their Champions League aspirations. With the league still tightly contested, every point will be crucial as they aim to secure a top-three finish.
In conclusion, Amine Gouiri's hat-trick and Marseille's convincing 4-1 victory over Brest not only showcased the team's attacking talent but also reaffirmed their determination to remain competitive in Ligue 1. As they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, the Phocéens will be eager to maintain this momentum and continue their push for European football next season.
