Le Cercle falls before going to Malta

Already qualified for the Final 4 even before the last match, Le Cercle des Nageurs de Marseille suffered a loss without major consequences in Athens against Olympiacos (12-8). This defeat, which prevents Marseille from claiming the top spot in Group A now held by Novi Beograd, does not affect their European journey or their ambitions.

A weak start, an insurmountable deficit

Against a motivated Greek team backed by the home crowd, Milos Scepanovic's men found themselves chasing the score from the early minutes. Despite Vladan Spaic's goal to reduce the deficit (2-1), Olympiacos quickly extended their lead, setting the pace and capitalizing on every Marseille mistake. The first quarter ended decisively in favor of Olympiacos (4-1), a gap that remained throughout the match.

Never completely out of reach but seldom able to reverse the tide, Marseille alternated between encouraging sequences and lapses. Trailing 9-4 in the middle of the third period, the match seemed wrapped up. Yet, CNM reacted by narrowing the score to 9-7 at the start of the final quarter. However, they failed to truly unsettle Olympiacos, who remained in control until the end.

A setback without consequences, but a tough semifinal ahead

This defeat (the second in six matches) costs Marseille the top spot in Group A, as Novi Beograd claimed it with a convincing victory over Jadran Split. As a direct consequence, CNM will face Ferencvaros TC in the semifinals of the Final 4 on May 31st in Malta.

On paper, this draws a more challenging opponent since Ferencvaros is experienced in European competitions. However, it is within reach for the solid and experienced Marseille team. Despite this stumble, CNM has shown throughout this campaign the ability to raise their level in crucial moments, notably in Belgrade and Split.

Heading to Malta for history

With this qualification for the Final 4, Marseille has already secured a spot among the elite of European water polo. But the story is not over. On May 31st, against the Hungarian team Ferencvaros, Marseille will have the opportunity to reach new heights. The other semifinal will feature Novi Beograd against Barceloneta, promising an explosive final.

Olympiacos – Marseille: 12 - 08 (4-1, 1-1, 4-4, 3-2)
Olympiacos: Loncar 2, Gkillas 3, Genidounias 1, Fountoulis 1, Zalanki 2, Pouros 1, Nikolaidis 2
Marseille: Crousillat 2, Spaic 2, Vernoux 2, Bouet 1, Velotto 1

Results

Group A

• Jadran Split – Novi Beograd: 7-15
• Olympiacos – Marseille: 12-8

Group B

• Ferencvaros – Oradea: 20-10
• Barceloneta – Savone: 17-10

Photo credit - WP Inside