Caen - OM (0-2): Four in a row!

Midway through a five-game, fifteen-match streak, Rudi Garcia made four changes to his starting lineup: On suspension when facing Strasbourg, Rolando and Lopez started in Caen instead of Abdennour and Ocampos, Payet replaced Sanson and Njie is lined up in Germain's position at the forefront of the attack. The Cameroonian had not been part of the starting elite since the first leg against Strasbourg at the Orange Vélodrome on October 15.
The Olympiens had a strong presence during the first fifteen minutes. OM's pressing was effective. Caen were not able to get control of the ball. But they were very close to resolving the issue. On a counter from Santini, his goal is denied because of being offside. This disqualified goal wakes up the locals but they fail to reach Mandanda's goal. Marseillais also havd trouble being dangerous. In the first half, there were some interesting actions but in the end only two shots: a header from Njie over the bar and a blocked strike from a run-down Thauvin.

Fortunately, Rudi Garcia's men returned for the second half with a lot more ambition. They play better, making the game more interesting and finally liven up the encounter. At the penalty zone, Thauvin misses control of a centre kick by Sakai. Njie, reported offside even though he was not, touches the post. At 55^th minute, Bessat fouls Sarr in the goal area, the referee shows no hesitation and whistles a penalty. Payet transformed it and gave the advantage to OM, who continued to dominate.
The OM captain tries the break on a free kick but it is over the bar Njie then stumbles on Vercoutre. The Normandy goalie is beaten again in the 74^th minute. Thauvin, the most decisive Olympien of the season, doubles the score. On a counter strike, the Orléans native fights to get it back before firing a shot that goes into the goal. It's his 50^th career league goal!
Garcia then gives some playing time to the players on the bench: Ocampos followed by Germain make their debut. OM still dominate their opponents who struggle to react. The second goal made Féret and his teammates lose all their energy.

With this win, the fourth rank in the Ligue 1, the fifth in all competitions, OM climbs to second place in the standings. Rudi Garcia and his players, who have clearly reached a milestone in their performance, especially in control and management, await the results of Monaco (who are welcoming Metz) and Lyon (who are hosting PSG).