Hidalgo Blocks Marseille’s Rise to Ligue 1 Leader with Draw Against Toulouse
Marseille’s hopes of claiming the Ligue 1 top spot slipped away after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Toulouse on Saturday. This match marked the 14th round of the season, where Paris Saint-Germain remained leaders following their 1-0 defeat to Monaco. The draw meant that Marseille couldn’t capitalize on PSG’s loss.
Match Overview
The game took place at the Vélodrome Stadium, where Marseille initially trailed 1-0 before turning the tide to lead 2-1 with just three minutes remaining. However, Santiago Hidalgo’s late equalizer for Toulouse in the 92nd minute meant both teams shared the points.
Key Events
- Date: Saturday, 14th round of Ligue 1
- Final Score: Marseille 2 – 2 Toulouse
- Locations: Vélodrome Stadium, Marseille
- Santiago Hidalgo: Scored the equalizer for Toulouse
- Marseille Goals: Igor Paixao (67′), Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (74′)
- Toulouse Goals: Emersonn (15′), Santiago Hidalgo (90+2′)
First Half Highlights
The match started with fewer attacking opportunities until Emersonn scored for Toulouse in the 15th minute. He intercepted a pass and beat Geronimo Rulli, hitting the post before the ball went in. Marseille struggled to convert their possession into significant chances, although they nearly equalized at the end of the first half with a close effort from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Second Half Turnaround
Upon return from halftime, Marseille pressed harder. An impressive surge from Igor Paixao equalized in the 67th minute, followed shortly by a header from Hojbjerg that put Marseille ahead in the 74th minute. The momentum shifted, making the closing minutes tense for both sides.
Late Drama
As the match approached its conclusion, both teams had chances. However, it was Santiago Hidalgo who stole the show with a header that leveled the score in the dying moments, sending the crowd into disbelief. This late strike thwarted Marseille’s push for the Ligue 1 summit.
Implications
The draw leaves Marseille in second place, trailing Paris Saint-Germain. With Lens poised to play Angers the following day, the battle for Ligue 1 leadership remains intense. Marseille’s inability to capitalize on PSG’s slip underscores the competitive nature of this season.
