# Marseille Edge Past Angers 2-1 as Payet Inspires Top Spot Push

In a thrilling encounter at the Stade de France, Marseille secured a crucial victory over Angers with a convincing 2-1 scoreline in their home match. The victory not only propelled Marseille to the top of the Ligue 1 standings but also showcased the dynamic performance of coach Thomas Payet.

### Match Highlights

The match kicked off with both teams displaying impressive defensive solidity. Marseille's backline, featuring key players like Nicolas Anelka and Olivier Giroud, dominated the midfield, while Angers' defense was solidified by their experienced goalkeeper, Hugo Lebedev. However, Marseille quickly found themselves on the attack, and their forward line began to dominate the game.

### Payet’s Influence

Thomas Payet, the man behind Marseille's resurgence, played a pivotal role in securing the win. His tactical vision and leadership were evident throughout the match, guiding his team towards opportunities. Payet's ability to read the game and make timely substitutions contributed significantly to Marseille's success.

#### Marseille's Key Players

- **Nicolas Anelka**: The French striker put Marseille ahead early in the second half with a well-taken goal.

- **Olivier Giroud**: Another attacking force for Marseille, Giroud added another goal late in the game to seal the victory.

- **Alexandre Lacazette**: The versatile midfielder provided a spark for Marseille with his contributions both defensively and offensively.

#### Angers’ Challenges

Angers, despite their strong defense, struggled to find a way through Marseille's pressing. Their lack of creativity and inability to break down Marseille's organized defense left them vulnerable to Marseille's counterattacks.

### Post-Match Analysis

The victory is particularly significant for Marseille as they move closer to the title race. With this win, Marseille has climbed up to third place in the league table, only three points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain. This position gives Marseille hope of challenging for the championship next season.

Thomas Payet’s influence is evident throughout the match, from his tactical adjustments to his leadership of the team. His ability to inspire and motivate his players is crucial in maintaining high levels of performance under pressure.

### Conclusion

Marseille's 2-1 victory over Angers demonstrates the power of a well-coached team and a focused mindset. Thomas Payet’s tactical acumen and leadership played a vital role in securing the win, while Marseille’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity helped them overcome their opponents. This victory sets a positive tone for Marseille’s remaining matches and could be a turning point in their title pursuit.