Olympique de Marseille conceded a frustrating draw against Lille (1-1) during the 16th day of Ligue 1, after leading the score thanks to a goal from Merlin. Bafodé Diakité’s equalizing header in the 87th minute provoked mixed reactions, with some fans blaming referee Willy Delajod for penalties not called. However, Walid Acherchour, consultant on RMC Sportpreferred to point the finger at the tactical choices of Roberto De Zerbi, which he considered too defensive and counterproductive.
“I didn’t understand De Zerbi’s changes. You take out Greenwood, Rongier and Merlin, who were offensive assets. You bring in Lirola, who takes a red without contributing anything, and you reposition Kondogbia, excellent in defense, in the middle. These choices allowed Lille to settle in and equalize”analyzed Acherchour in After Foot.
An overly cautious strategy that costs OM dearly
According to the consultant, these substitutions weakened OM’s transitions, giving Lille more space to get back into the match. Acherchour also criticized the team’s inability to capitalize on their advantage, blaming a lack of risk-taking from the Italian coach.
Despite this setback, De Zerbi will have two weeks to analyze his choices and prepare for the next meeting. However, OM remains under pressure, with the race for the podium still hotly contested.
