Ligue 1: Marseille Held to Frustrating Draw as Ayew Strikes Against Former Club
By BBC Sport – Football
Marseille were forced to settle for a frustrating 1-1 draw against Lorient in the opening match of Ligue 1’s 16th round, despite creating several clear chances in front of goal.
Dimitri Payet gave the home side an early advantage with a trademark curling strike, delighting the crowd at the Stade Vélodrome. However, the lead did not last long. Lorient hit back through Jordan Ayew, who calmly converted a penalty against his former club.
The spot-kick, awarded following a counterattack, came with a dose of drama — both on and off the ball. Before Ayew’s run-up, Marseille striker André-Pierre Gignac was seen speaking to the Ghanaian forward, prompting speculation over what was said in the tense moment between two former teammates.
Gignac shed light on the exchange during the post-match media session. “I asked him if he was going to shoot the same way as he did against Toulouse,” Gignac revealed. “He said yes. So there you go… and he did! I should have told my goalkeeper. But I didn’t want to interfere — Steve [Mandanda] is experienced enough to make his own choices and pick the right side.”
Unfortunately for Marseille, Mandanda guessed wrong, and Ayew’s penalty drew Lorient level.
Despite sustained pressure and opportunities to reclaim the lead, OM were unable to find a breakthrough. The result leaves Marseille ruing missed chances in a match they largely dominated, with manager Marcelo Bielsa likely frustrated by the two dropped points.
The draw adds further tension to Marseille’s title ambitions, as the Ligue 1 race tightens heading into the winter period. As for Ayew, his goal against his former employers was delivered with calm precision — and perhaps a hint of added satisfaction.
In a fixture marked by fine margins and friendly rivalries, it was the former Marseille man who ultimately had the last word.
