Marseille were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final against Atalanta. Despite dominating the game, the French side fell behind early when Gianluca Scamacca scored for the visitors. Chancel Mbemba quickly equalized with a stunning long-range strike. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang missed a couple of clear chances for Marseille, including a one-on-one opportunity that he dragged wide. The hosts continued to push for a winner after the break, with substitute Iliman Ndiaye hitting the woodwork with the best chance. Atalanta came close to stealing the win on a counter-attack, but Aleksey Miranchuk’s shot went wide.
Marseille may see the draw as a missed opportunity, as they had the better chances in the match but failed to capitalize on them. Atalanta, on the other hand, will be relieved to escape with a draw and may now hold a slight advantage heading into the second leg. Marseille, three-time finalists in the UEFA Europa League, will need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to book their place in the final in Dublin. With the tie finely poised, the second leg promises to be an exciting encounter.
Amine Harit was named the Player of the Match for his performance before being substituted in the 71st minute. The Marseille forward caused constant problems for Atalanta with his directness and pace, creating chances for his teammates and posing a threat to the opposition defense. Harit’s passing was particularly effective, as he frequently fed his teammates in dangerous positions. His withdrawal was a relief for the Atalanta defenders, who struggled to contain him throughout the game.
Player ratings for Marseille included standout performances from Harit as well as Mbemba, Aubameyang, and Kondogbia. Atalanta’s ratings highlighted solid displays from Koopmeiners, Scamacca, and Zappacosta. Key moments in the match included Scamacca’s early goal for Atalanta, Mbemba’s equalizer for Marseille, and missed opportunities from Aubameyang and Ndiaye. Marseille extended their winless run against Italian opponents to 12 games, dating back to 2012, while Atalanta maintained their unbeaten away record in the Europa League.
The second leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final between Marseille and Atalanta is set to take place on May 9 and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Marseille will need to improve their finishing if they are to overcome Atalanta and secure a spot in the final. The Italian side will be looking to capitalize on their away goal advantage and secure a place in the final in Dublin. With both teams eager to advance, the second leg promises to be a thrilling encounter with a spot in the final at stake.
