Marseille and Toulouse Played to a Draw, With McKenzie Providing the Late Assist
Two United States internationals played roles as Marseille and Toulouse battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw at Stade Vélodrome on Saturday, with the result preventing Marseille from capitalizing on Paris Saint-Germain's earlier defeat to Monaco.
Marseille's Timothy Weah featured for the full 90 minutes as his side sought to claim top spot in Ligue 1. The 25-year-old winger, playing at right-back, completed 43-of-47 passes and created one scoring opportunity while completing two successful dribbles. Operating primarily on the right flank, Weah recorded six touches in the opposition penalty area and won five of eight ground duels, demonstrating his willingness to engage in physical battles throughout the contest.
On the opposing side, Toulouse defender Mark McKenzie delivered an influential performance that culminated in a crucial assist for Santiago Hidalgo's dramatic injury-time equalizer. The 26-year-old center-back executed a long throw-in from the right byline deep into stoppage time, providing the service that led to Hidalgo's header and secured a vital point for the visitors. McKenzie's defensive work was equally impressive, recording 10 defensive contributions, including five clearances, three blocks and two tackles.
The match saw Marseille twice take the lead through Igor Paixão and Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, building on Emersonn's early opener for Toulouse. Højbjerg's 74th-minute header appeared to have secured three points for the hosts, but McKenzie's creative contribution in the dying moments ensured Toulouse wouldn't leave empty-handed.
The result proved costly for Marseille's title aspirations. While PSG remained one point clear despite their loss, Lens's subsequent victory over Angers saw them leapfrog both clubs to claim top spot in the Ligue 1 standings. Marseille dropped to third place, their failure to convert dominance into victory highlighting the unforgiving nature of the title race. McKenzie's late intervention ultimately dealt a significant blow to Marseille's championship ambitions.
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