Marseille beats Reims 2-1, Payet scores a free-kick in stoppage time.

# Marseille Beats Reims 2-1 in Thrilling Encounter, Payet Seals Winner in Stoppage Time

In a match filled with drama, tension, and skill, Marseille edged out Reims with a 2-1 victory, thanks to a late comeback and a stunning free-kick goal by Stevan Payet. The game, played at Stade Vélodrome in Marseille, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams creating chances and showcasing their attacking prowess.

The first half was dominated by Marseille, who took the game to Reims from the start. Their pressure told in the 15th minute when Payet, operating as a false nine, delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Reims’ defense couldn’t deal with the delivery, and the ball fell to Kemar NHAKI, who slotted it into the net. NHAKI’s goal gave Marseille a 1-0 lead, and they could have doubled their advantage moments later. A clinical counter-attack saw Payet link up well with NHAKI, but Reims’ goalkeeper did well to save from the Marseille striker.

Reims, despite being a goal behind, refused to back down. They grew in confidence and began to press Marseille’s defense, looking to exploit any gaps. Their efforts paid off in the 35th minute when Eddy Boutolut, a lively Reims attacker, finished a neat team move with a low shot past Véron André. The scores were level at halftime.

The second half saw both teams push for a winner, but the game turned into a tactical battle. Marseille’s defense, led by the experienced Boubacar Diawara and Jean-Daniel Akpa, stood firm under Reims’ pressure. Reims’ hopes of winning were dealt a blow in the 84th minute when Payet, who had been instrumental in Marseille’s attack, was brought down by a foul in the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot, and Payet, known for his composure on the penalty spot, converted the kick to give Marseille a 2-1 lead.

Reims, now trailing, threw everything forward in search of an equalizer. They poured forward, but Marseille’s defense held firm, and the visitors couldn’t find a way through. The game entered stoppage time, and with just five minutes left, Payet delivered a stunning free-kick from 25 yards out that curved perfectly into the top corner of the net. Reims’ goalkeeper had no chance, and Marseille’s fans erupted in celebration.

Payet, who had been man of the match, became the hero for the Stade Vélodrome faithful with his late, dramatic winner. The result, coupled with Payet’s performances this season, will boost Marseille’s confidence as they aim for a stronger finish in the league table.

For Reims, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. They had dominated large parts of the game and should have taken something from it, but Marseille’s defensive resilience and Payet’s clinical finishing ultimately proved the difference.

In a match that had everything—goals, drama, and skill—Marseille’s 2-1 victory over Reims will be remembered for Payet’s heroics and the dramatic late goal that sealed the deal. It’s a result that will live long in the memory of the Marseille faithful.