Marseille targets the top spot in Athens

Already qualified for the Final 4 after a dominant performance in Split, Cercle des Nageurs de Marseille has a lot at stake this Wednesday in the final match of the second round of the Champions League. Objective: maintain the top spot in Group A, which means a (theoretically) more manageable opponent in the semifinals. To achieve this, Marseille will need to pull off another feat, this time away from home, against Olympiacos.

Marseille flying high

CNM has already done the essential. By crushing Jadran Split (18-06) in Croatia on the 5th matchday, under the guidance of Milos Scepanovic, they secured their ticket to the Final 4 brilliantly. A historic success in both margin and style, showcasing the level of maturity and confidence the Marseille team has reached this season.

Led by a brilliant Alexandre Bouet (5 goals) and a solid defense, the French champions have sent a clear message to the European water polo scene: they are here to contend for the title.

A remote duel with Novi Beograd

But the European campaign is not quite over. One last battle remains, and it promises to be electric. While Marseille is assured a place in the Final 4, they are neck and neck with Novi Beograd for the top spot in the group. Both teams have the same number of points, but CNM holds the advantage in head-to-head goal difference (victory 11-10 away, draw 12-12 at home). A victory in Greece, against an Olympiacos team already eliminated but still formidable at home, would secure Marseille the top position.

A draw or a defeat, on the other hand, would open the door for Novi Beograd, who should secure a straightforward win against Jadran Split.

Despite their elimination, Olympiacos is not a resigned opponent. Defeated by just one goal in Belgrade in the previous matchday (16-15), the Greeks will want to end on a positive note in front of their home crowd and could pose serious problems for Marseille.

But Marseille has arguments to make. Throughout this campaign, CNM has been strong away from home, with significant wins in Belgrade and Split. If defensive intensity and offensive precision are on point, the Marseille team has all the tools to succeed.

Final 4 in sight

Finishing on top of the group would allow CNM to avoid Ferencvaros in the semifinals and face Barceloneta, a more familiar and accessible opponent for Marseille. Beyond the strategic calculation, this trip to Athens is an opportunity to continue the momentum, to show that Marseille is no longer an underdog but a title contender.

One thing is certain: after surpassing a threshold in Split, the club wants to further etch their name in history. And this Wednesday, in Athens, all eyes will be on the French champions.

Matches:

Group A

• Jadran Split - Novi Beograd
• Olympiacos - Marseille

Group B

• Ferencvaros - Oradea
• Barceloneta - Savone

Photo credit - WP Inside