# Marseille Comes Back to Beat Reims 2-1, Payet Scores Free-Kick Winner in Stoppage Time
Marseille staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Reims in a thrilling Ligue 1 encounter on Sunday. The match, which was a battle between two sides aiming to challenge for the top half of the table, saw Marseille rise to the occasion thanks to a clinical finish from Alexis Payet in stoppage time.
The game started evenly poised, with both teams creating chances in the first half. However, Reims took the lead just before halftime through a well-taken goal. Marseille, however, refused to back down and responded with determination in the second half. The turning point came in the 78th minute when Payet, who had been influential in the midfield, converted a free-kick into the top corner from outside the box. This goal, scored in the final minutes of the game, sent the Stade Vélodrome into raptures and secured all three points for Marseille.
Payet, who has been a standout performer for Marseille this season, was once again the hero for his side. His ability to read the game and deliver a pinpoint free-kick was a key factor in the victory. The result highlighted Marseille’s resilience and ability to come back from a set-piece situation, which has been a recurring theme in their campaign so far.
Reims, who had fought valiantly to equalize in the 84th minute, were left to rue missed opportunities. Their defense, despite applying pressure, couldn’t prevent Payet’s decisive strike. Marseille’s win sees them move up to eighth place in the table, while Reims slip to 12th.
Speaking after the match, Marseille manager Igor Tudor praised his side’s never-say-die attitude. “We showed great character out there,” Tudor said. “We didn’t panic when we went behind and kept pushing until the final whistle. Alexis’s goal was the difference-maker, and I’m proud of how we fought back.”
For Reims, the defeat feels like a missed opportunity to extend their recent good form. Manager Fabrice Bruno emphasized the importance of learning from the loss. “We played well, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal,” Bruno said. “Marseille’s set-piece expertise was the key today, and we’ll need to work on that aspect as we move forward.”
In summary, Marseille’s comeback victory over Reims was a testament to their fighting spirit, while Reims will take plenty of confidence into their next game. Alexis Payet’s heroics will undoubtedly be a talking point, and Marseille’s fans will be eager to see more of their dynamic midfielder in the coming weeks.