Mason Greenwood scored his 22nd goal of the season as Marseille cruised past Rennes to reach the Coupe de France quarter-finals, but the 3–0 win was overshadowed by controversy as Ethan Nwaneri avoided a red card for a first-half challenge.
The result offered a timely response for Roberto De Zerbi’s side following a difficult spell, sending Marseille into the last eight with a composed performance at the Orange Vélodrome.
Marseille stroll into last eight
Marseille needed less than a minute to take control of the tie. Timothy Weah pressed high, won possession and slipped the ball into the path of Amine Gouiri, who finished decisively from inside the box to give the hosts an immediate advantage.
The match’s key flashpoint arrived midway through the first half. Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri was booked for a late challenge on Glen Kamara, a decision that left Rennes players furious as replays suggested the tackle could have warranted a dismissal. Kamara was forced off soon after, but the referee opted against upgrading the punishment.
Marseille made their dominance count shortly after the restart. Gouiri again turned provider, threading a pass through to Greenwood, who calmly slotted home to double the lead and underline his clinical form. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang completed the scoring in the final 10 minutes, converting from close range to seal a comfortable victory.
De Zerbi’s side bounce back after tough run
The cup success came at an important moment for De Zerbi, whose side had recently suffered a heavy Champions League defeat away to Club Brugge before throwing away a two-goal lead in a Ligue 1 draw against Paris FC.
Speaking after the match, the Marseille head coach admitted that recent setbacks remain fresh but praised his players’ mentality in regaining momentum.
“We were solid and focused. It was important to win, but this match against Bruges still leaves scars,” — Roberto De Zerbi
Greenwood continues prolific season
Greenwood’s strike took him to 22 goals in all competitions, an exceptional return following his £27 million move in 2024. The forward has become one of Marseille’s most reliable attacking outlets this season.
Marseille president Pablo Longoria has previously explained that extensive due diligence was carried out before approving the signing. Greenwood had faced allegations of attempted rape and assault during his time at Manchester United, charges that were discontinued in February 2023, allowing him to resume his professional career.
Key Insights
- Marseille scored inside the opening minute and controlled the tie throughout
- Ethan Nwaneri was fortunate to escape a red card after a first-half challenge
- Mason Greenwood has now scored 22 goals in all competitions this season
- The win offers a timely boost after recent domestic and European setbacks
What’s Next
Marseille return to Ligue 1 action this weekend with a crucial clash against Paris Saint-Germain. De Zerbi’s side currently sit third in the table, nine points behind the leaders, and defeat would all but end their faint title hopes. A win, however, would not only narrow the gap but also reinforce the sense that Marseille are stabilising after a turbulent run of results.
Should Greenwood be considered one of Ligue 1’s most decisive forwards this season, or does Marseille’s form still hinge too heavily on individual moments?
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