Marseille secure vital win over Metz as Aubameyang finds scoring touch
Marseille moved back into the Ligue 1 top three with a hard-fought 3-1 home victory over bottom club Metz on Thursday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang opened the scoring in the 13th minute, with Luis Paixao adding a second shortly after half-time. Metz's Georgiy Tsitaichvili quickly pulled one back, but Hamed Junior Traoré sealed the win in stoppage time for Habib Beye's side.
The result lifts Marseille above Lille into third place, at least temporarily, applying pressure in the race for Champions League qualification. For Metz, the defeat leaves them anchored to the foot of the table, 11 points from safety with only nine games remaining, and their relegation to Ligue 2 appears increasingly inevitable.
The match's key narrative was the return to the scoresheet for veteran striker Aubameyang. According to Opta statistics, it was his first Ligue 1 goal since January, ending a run of nine league appearances without one. The 36-year-old, whose future at the club has been subject to speculation, finished coolly after being played through by Mason Greenwood, offering a timely reminder of his enduring quality in the penalty area.
Marseille dominated possession and chances but were repeatedly frustrated by Metz goalkeeper Pape Sy and the woodwork, with Gauthier Hein hitting the post for the visitors just before half-time. The hosts' inability to kill the game earlier led to a nervy period after Tsitaichvili's fine solo effort made it 2-1, before substitute Traoré finally ensured the points.
For Marseille, the performance was functional rather than fluent, but the three points are crucial as they navigate a tight battle for European places. The win provides a positive start for the club under its new presidential leadership, with sporting director Pablo Longoria recently assuming the presidency following the departure of former president Jacques-Henri Eyraud.
Aubameyang's goal and overall contribution will be a welcome sight for manager Habib Beye. The Gabonese forward remains a key figure in the attack, especially with the club reportedly assessing its striking options for next season. His experience and occasional moments of brilliance, as seen against Metz, could prove vital in the run-in.
The fixture also highlighted the continued integration of summer signing Mason Greenwood, who provided the assist for the opener and was a persistent threat before being substituted. His link-up play with Aubameyang and Amine Gouiri is gradually developing into a potent offensive trio for Marseille.
For Metz, despite another defeat, there were signs of fight that have been absent during much of their dismal campaign. Coach Tavenot will hope that spirit can translate into a miraculous late survival push, though the gap now looks insurmountable. The club must now likely plan for a swift return to the top flight, with a significant squad overhaul expected this summer.
