In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Olympique de Marseille triumphed over Stade Brestois with a resounding 4-1 victory at the Vélodrome on April 27, 2025. The match, part of the 31st matchday of Ligue 1, showcased the talents of Amine Gouiri, who scored a spectacular hat trick, his performance lighting up the stadium and solidifying his status among the Marseille faithful.
From the opening whistle, Marseille demonstrated their intent. Gouiri opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a composed finish, expertly controlling a long pass from Luis Henrique before slotting the ball between the legs of defender Massadio Haïdara and into the far corner of the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
As the match unfolded, it became clear that Gouiri was in exceptional form. Shortly before halftime, with Marseille leading 2-1, Gouiri executed a breathtaking overhead kick that found the bottom corner of the net, a goal that not only showcased his technical prowess but also sent the Vélodrome into raptures. "It's one of the most beautiful goals of my career, and I hope to score more like it," Gouiri said, reflecting on his stunning strike.
This goal, which came in the 45th minute, was set up by Mason Greenwood, who had already made his mark on the game by scoring earlier. Greenwood's assist was perfectly timed, allowing Gouiri to control the ball with his chest before unleashing his acrobatic shot. The goal was not just a highlight of the match but also a contender for the UNFP trophy for the best goal of the season, with the ceremony set to take place on May 11, 2025.
Marseille went into the break with a commanding 3-1 lead, despite having an expected goals (xG) of just 0.29 compared to Brest's 1.55. However, the efficiency of the home side was undeniable, and Gouiri's contribution was pivotal. By the end of the match, he had not only secured the victory for his team but also marked his name in the history of the club with a total of seven goals in eleven Ligue 1 appearances this season.
The second half saw Gouiri complete his hat trick in the 63rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Brest. Following a well-placed pass from Adrien Rabiot, Gouiri found himself in the right place at the right time, calmly slotting the ball home with a precise finish. "I thought I was offside, but I was lucky enough to stay on and score," he remarked, highlighting his awareness and instinct as a forward.
Marseille's victory was not just about individual brilliance; it was a crucial win in the context of the Ligue 1 standings. With this result, Marseille reclaimed second place, now two points clear of Lille, their next opponent. The pressure is mounting as the race for European qualification intensifies, with six teams within just two points of each other in the standings. Lille sits at 56 points, followed closely by Monaco at 55, while Marseille and Lyon both have 55 points as well, with Nice and Strasbourg trailing closely behind.
The atmosphere at the Vélodrome was electric, with fans showing their appreciation not only for Gouiri's performance but also paying tribute to Pope Francis, who had passed away earlier in the week. The emotional backdrop added to the significance of the match, as the supporters rallied behind their team in a show of solidarity and passion.
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi expressed his satisfaction with Gouiri's performance, noting, "I want to help Gouiri become a real goalscorer, a sniper. He has the talent, and tonight he showed it." De Zerbi's tactical adjustments have allowed Gouiri to thrive, as he has been given more freedom to roam and create opportunities, which has paid dividends for both the player and the team.
As the final whistle blew, the cheers for Gouiri echoed throughout the stadium, a testament to his impact on the match and the season. His hat trick not only secured three vital points for Marseille but also underscored his potential as a key player in their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
Looking ahead, Marseille faces a crucial match against Lille next Sunday at the Pierre Mauroy stadium, a game that could have significant implications for the title race and European placements. With Gouiri in such fine form, the Phocéens will be hopeful of continuing their winning momentum and solidifying their position in the league.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming fixtures, the focus remains on Gouiri and his ability to deliver in critical moments. If his performance against Brest is any indication, Marseille fans can expect more thrilling displays from their star striker in the weeks to come.
In conclusion, Amine Gouiri's hat trick against Brest not only showcased his talent but also reignited Marseille's ambitions for a strong finish to the season. With the pressure mounting and the stakes higher than ever, Gouiri's contributions will be vital as the team aims for a return to European competition.
