Neal Maupay Shines as Marseille Celebrates 125th Anniversary with Win Over Nice

New Marseille striker Neal Maupay impressed on his full debut by scoring against his former club Nice in a 2-0 victory. Marseille celebrated its 125th anniversary and went unbeaten, leading the standings with a one-point advantage over Paris Saint-Germain. Maupay joined Marseille from Everton on a season loan.

New Marseille striker Neal Maupay shone on his full debut, scoring in a 2-0 victory over his former club Nice during a French league match on Saturday. The match saw Nice hit the woodwork three times.

Marseille, celebrating its 125th anniversary, handed Maupay his first start under coach Roberto De Zerbi. Unbeaten, Marseille now leads the standings with a one-point lead over Paris Saint-Germain, which could reclaim the top spot later Saturday when hosting Brest.

Despite having only five shots on target, Marseille scored twice. Maupay, recently joined from Everton on a season loan, converted a rare chance in the 40th minute, heading past Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka after a deflected cross from Luis Henrique. Marseille dominated possession, but Nice was more dangerous in the first half, hitting the woodwork three times throughout the match.

Early in the second half, Luis Henrique provided a beautiful curled shot into the top left corner, assisted by Amine Harit. Marseille finished with 10 men after Derek Cornelius received a second yellow card. Despite Nice's pressure and good efforts from goalie Geronimo Rulli, Marseille held on for the victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)