OM Scores Early After Merlin’s Blunder
In a crucial Coupe de France Round of 16 match, Olympique de Marseille faced Rennes amid a charged atmosphere. Hostile banners greeted the players, putting pressure on them from the start. Despite this, the team, led by coach Roberto De Zerbi, quickly found their rhythm.
Early Blunder from Merlin Affects Rennes
The game’s early turning point came just two minutes in. Rennes defender Quentin Merlin hesitated with the ball in his own area. Instead of clearing the ball, he attempted a risky dribble.
Timothy Weah Capitalizes
This decision backfired spectacularly. Timothy Weah intercepted the ball easily. He promptly set up Amine Gouri, who scored the opening goal for Marseille.
Match Date and Outcome
- Date: February 3, 2026
- Event: Coupe de France Round of 16
- Teams: Olympique de Marseille vs. Rennes
Marseille’s early lead was a direct consequence of Merlin’s blunder, showcasing how pivotal early mistakes can be in high-stakes matches. The match continued with Marseille pushing forward, building on their early advantage.
Conclusion
This match highlighted the importance of decision-making under pressure. As the tournament progresses, teams will need to minimize mistakes to advance successfully in the competition.
