Germain shines as Marseille beat Rennes in action-packed game

Valere Germain scored one and set up another as Olympique de Marseille stayed in the hunt for second place in Ligue 1 when they beat Stade Rennais away 3-0 in a highly-charged game on Saturday.

Local newspaper Ouest France reported clashes between fans prior to the game, which was then interrupted for a few minutes because of lit flares.

Marseille prevailed through goals by Germain, Morgan Sanson and Florian Thauvin, exposing the home defence's weaknesses.

The Provence side are fourth with 41 points from 20 matches, level on points with Monaco who were held to a goalless stalemate at Montpellier, the league's best defence, also on Saturday.

Champions League

'That’s what’s going to catch them out' - Jenas reflects on Newcastle's CL chances

06/11/2023 at 22:05

Florian Thauvin reacts after the French L1 football match between Marseille (OM) and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on October 22, 2017

Image credit: Getty Images

Thauvin saw his penalty kick in the 28th minute saved by Tomas Koubek, but Marseille were soon rewarded for their early domination.

In the 35th minute, Thauvin's through ball was collected in the box by Germain, who coolly slotted it past Koubek to open the scoring.

Sanson doubled the tally on the stroke of halftime with a fine half-volley on the turn from Germain's perfect cross.

Thauvin wrapped it up seven minutes from time as he headed home from Luiz Gustavo's teasing cross from the left.

Nice are sixth on 30 points after beating Amiens 1-0 at home.

Barclays WSL

Eidevall accused of 'bullying' fourth official by Man City manager Taylor

05/11/2023 at 19:55

Premier League

Round-up: Brentford come from behind to beat West Ham, Brighton drop points at Everton

04/11/2023 at 18:35

Serie A

Dia cancels out Samardzic effort as Salernitana earn home draw against Udinese

28/08/2023 at 20:26