Brighton & Hove Albion and Marseille clash in their final Group B fixture at the American Express Stadium, aiming to secure the top spot in the Europa League group and progress directly to the last 16.
Both teams have already secured qualification but are vying for the top position to avoid the playoff round.
Match Preview
Brighton, in their debut European group-stage campaign, faced challenges against Marseille, Ajax, and AEK Athens but secured qualification after a slow start with wins against Ajax and AEK Athens. Their recent domestic form, however, saw mixed results, including a 1-1 draw against Burnley.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side needs a win against Marseille to ensure top spot. They previously managed a 2-2 draw against Marseille in the opening fixture and are undefeated in their last seven home games.
Marseille, securing 11 points from five matches, guaranteed their spot in the knockout stage with a thrilling 4-3 win against Ajax. Gennaro Gattuso’s side aims to top the group but faces a tough away fixture at Brighton.
Marseille, despite their European success, had a mixed run domestically but showcased strength with wins against Lyon and Lorient.
However, their away record in England is not impressive, with just one win in their last 14 European away games.
Team News
Brighton has a long injury list including Solly March, Julio Enciso, Pervis Estupinan, Danny Welbeck, Ansu Fati, Tariq Lamptey, and Adam Webster. Joel Veltman may return, and Joao Pedro is likely to lead the attack.
Marseille is without Joaquin Correa and Valentin Rongier, while Geoffrey Kondogbia is doubtful. Jonathan Clauss is available after suspension, and Aubameyang, in red-hot form, is expected to lead the attack.
Possible Lineups
Brighton: (4-2-3-1)
Steele;
Veltman, Dunk, Igor, Hinshelwood;
Gross, Gilmour;
Adingra, Pedro, Mitoma;
Ferguson
Marseille: (4-4-2)
Lopez;
Clauss, Gigot, Mbemba, Lodi;
Sarr, Veretout, Ounahi, Harit;
Ndiaye, Aubameyang
Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 2-3 Marseille
Both teams aim for victory to secure the top spot. Given Brighton’s injury concerns and defensive vulnerabilities, an Aubameyang-inspired Marseille could edge out Brighton in an entertaining encounter on the South Coast.