Joseph Antoine Bell to Kick Off Marseille vs. Nice Ligue 1 Match

Former Marseille goalkeeper and Cameroon national team player Joseph Antoine Bell will kick off tonight's Ligue 1 match between Olympique de Marseille and OGC Nice at the Orange Vélodrome stadium. The match is part of Week 29 of the 2023/2024 Ligue 1 Uber Eats season.

Marseille will wear a special jersey for the occasion, featuring a multi-colored number representing diversity and the 'OM Africa' logo, to celebrate the club's African supporters. Several former African players who played for Marseille will be honored during the match, including Ibrahima Bakayoko, Cyrille Domorau, Titi Camara, Kaba Diawara, Abdoulaye Diallo, Joseph-Antoine Bell, Salomon Olembé, Habib Bamogo, and Abdoulaye Meïté.

The match is an opportunity for Marseille to move within 3 points of Lens, who currently occupy the 6th spot and a European place for next season. Marseille has only won matches wearing their home jersey this season, so this is a chance for them to break that 'curse'.

In addition to the special jersey, new products from the OM Africa collection, including jerseys made in Marseille workshops, will be available for purchase.

The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with goals scored by Terem Igobor Moffi (OGCN), Jonathan Clauss (OM), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (OM penalty), and Melvin Bard (OGCN). Marseille was reduced to 10 men before halftime after Faris Moumbagna received a red card.

Why this matters: The draw hurts Marseille's chances of qualifying for a European competition next season, as they trail Nice, who currently occupy the UEFA Europa Conference League spot, by seven points. The match also highlights Marseille's efforts to connect with their large African fan base through special initiatives and jerseys.

Despite being a man down, Marseille took the lead in the second half with Aubameyang's penalty. However, Nice equalized through Bard to secure the 2-2 draw. In the final minutes, Aubameyang had a chance to win it for Marseille, but his shot hit the crossbar. The result leaves Marseille still chasing a European spot for next season.

Key Takeaways

• Former Cameroon GK Joseph Bell kicked off Marseille vs Nice match.
• Marseille wore special jersey to celebrate African supporters and players.
• Match ended 2-2, hurting Marseille's chances of European qualification.
• Marseille took lead but was reduced to 10 men before halftime.
• Marseille's late chance to win was denied as Aubameyang hit the crossbar.