Ligue 1: Romao Sent Off as Marseille Suffer Second Defeat Against Reims
Olympique de Marseille’s rocky start to the season continued on Sunday with a 1-0 defeat away to Stade de Reims on Matchday 2 of Ligue 1, marking a second consecutive loss for the southern French giants.
In what was their first match following the sudden resignation of manager Marcelo Bielsa, Marseille struggled to find rhythm and discipline. The game’s decisive moment came early, with Malian right-back Hamari Traoré netting the only goal in the 14th minute, giving the home side an advantage they would not relinquish.
Marseille’s troubles were compounded when Togolese midfielder Alaixys Romao was sent off in the 74th minute after receiving a second yellow card. It was Romao’s second red card since joining OM in 2013—no Marseille player has received more in that period.
The defeat places OM in dangerous territory early in the season, having lost their opening two matches by the same scoreline (1-0). The squad looked uninspired in their post-Bielsa debut and failed to capitalise on a few half-chances created by the likes of Michy Batshuayi and Florian Thauvin.
Meanwhile, Reims continue their promising start. Togolese international Kossi Agassa, a standout performer in goal, once again provided a solid presence between the posts, helping his side secure their second consecutive win after an impressive 2-1 victory at Bordeaux on opening day.
Looking ahead, Reims will travel to Nantes for Matchday 3, aiming to continue their strong early form, while Marseille, now hovering near the relegation zone, face pressure to bounce back when they host Troyes at the Vélodrome.
