Olympique de Marseille returned to winning form in Ligue 1 with a crucial 3-1 victory over FC Metz, reigniting their push for a Champions League qualification spot. The win, a vital response to last weekend's defeat to Monaco, was spearheaded by the evergreen Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and a moment of magic from Igor Paixao.

The atmosphere at the Stade Vélodrome was charged following the morning's announcement of a new club president, but the focus quickly shifted to the pitch. Marseille asserted early dominance, and Aubameyang, the league's top scorer, broke the deadlock in the 13th minute. A swift counter-attack, initiated by Mason Greenwood, sent the Gabonese striker through, and he displayed impeccable composure to slot home despite slipping.

Marseille continued to create chances, with Amine Gouiri missing a golden opportunity, but they found their second goal shortly after halftime in spectacular fashion. Greenwood was again the provider, his clever outside-of-the-foot pass releasing Igor Paixao, who finished with a sublime, audacious chip over the advancing goalkeeper.

However, Metz responded instantly, with Georgi Tsitaishvili weaving through the OM defense just a minute later to pull a goal back and ensure a nervy finale. Despite some wasteful finishing from the hosts, substitute Junior Hamed Traoré finally sealed the three points in injury time, calming the nerves and securing a hard-fought win.

This result keeps the pressure on the teams above them in the tight race for the podium. For Marseille, the combination of Aubameyang's clinical edge and the creative spark from players like Greenwood and Paixao proved decisive, showcasing the attacking quality needed for the final sprint of the season.