OM crashes out of Europe in a game that represents the entire season. OM showed rage, determination, and incredible skill, only to fall short at the final whistle. In an electrifying atmosphere, OM outplayed Bilbao for a good part of the game, but will yet again leave with nothing but regret. There is incredible potential in the team, but with the risk of players leaving in the summer, this team is in danger of ending this season empty-handed. Team Review and Ratings to follow.

Nkoudou fighting for the ball against Bilbao. Source – om.net

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OM faces their own exit from the Europa Ligue, as they travel to Bilbao for the second leg of the Europa Ligue knockout phase. After a tough 1-0 loss in Marseille, where OM had chances but fell to a wonder-strike from Aduriz, OM goes to Spain needing to score at least 2 goals. With the offense sputtering at the moment, let us hope the high stakes of the matchup galvanize Michy and co. to find the back of the net, and often. Preview and My Lineup to follow.

OM warming up in Bilbao. Source – om.net

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I apologize for the lack of articles today. I recently had a medical procedure and could not get up for the 8am kickoff. However, here is a résumé of the game. As we can see, OM continues to struggle at home. Nkoulou will most likely be suspended. Michy has finally scored. Remarkably, Champions League is 5 points away. Enjoy!

Here are some helpful links to articles and reviews of the game. As I could not watch it, here are some helpful links and video highlights.

Fletcher against Bilbao. Photo courtesy of om.net

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OM faces a huge game against Basque giants Atletic Bilbao, in the knockout round of Europa Ligue. This is, whatever the result, going to be a great matchup. Bilbao bring a high-tempo, attacking style, to collide with OM’s more countering approach. Michel will face a couple big personnel choices, with Dja Djédjé and Cabella out. Continue reading for preview, personnel decisions, and probable lineup.

Bilbao supporters arriving in Marseille with Bielsa material. The two fan bases share the same nostalgia for the Argentine. Photo courtesy of lequipe.fr

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Another great performance, and another maddening result. In an exciting game,  both Nice and OM showed technique, creativity, and grit. OM, despite 5 golden opportunities, managed only 1 goal, and a tie that puts OM further and further away from a European spot. Review to follow.

Michy, nearly invisible in the smoke at the beginning of the game. Source: om.net

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Nice and OM play in yet another huge game with implications stretching to next season. With 5 points separating 3rd-place Nice and OM, this could be a pivotal game that helps OM acquire a European spot. It could, on the other hand, be the first nail in the coffin for OM’s ambitions. In a deadlocked mid-table fight, OM must take wins wherever it can get them, at this point. Review and Lineup to follow.

Picture from the OM 0-1 Nice game in the fall. Courtesy of lemonde.fr

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OM pull away the victory in a great game between the Ligue 1 giant and the CFA side. Trélissac put in a great performance, offering many counters and good chances. OM weathered the storm and imposed its will on the match, eventually getting goals from Alessandrini and Fletcher. Despite the choppy field, both teams were able to put on a show. Review/Ratings to follow.

Alessandrini scoring to put OM up 1-0.

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Attention ! OM square off against CFA (fourth division of French Football) side Trélissac. A possible Cinderella story following their defeat of Lille in the previous round, Trélissac come into this game with nothing to lose. OM, the heavy favorites, will look to rest certain starters and give playing time to some fresh players. Continue on for more preview and lineup.

Trélissac, after defeating Lille in a penalty shootout. Photo courtesy of 20minutes.fr

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