|
|
Olympique de Marseille's Didier Deschamps expresses delight at late Champions League victory over Inter
The 43-year-old boss got the better of opposite number Claudio Ranieri again, though stressed that the job is not yet completed after a dramatic victory over the Nerazzuri.
By Mohammed Ali
Andre Ayew headed in Mathieu Valbuena's corner in the 93rd minute to send the hosts into delirium with the late winner.
Though the visitors had opportunities, namely through Diego Forlan's first-half effort which was tipped over by Steve Mandanda. Subsequent chances from Mauro Zarate and Esteban Cambiasso failed to materalise, as the Nerazzuri ultimately fell to a sixth defeat in seven games to put Claudio Ranieri's tenure as Inter boss in serious doubt.
"It's good to have this success at the very end. We were against a great team tonight but I think we had more control," the 43-year-old was quoted as saying by uefa.com after the match.
"It was a game of few chances but we were the better side at the end. We have a small advantage. It's better than last year [when Marseille drew 0-0 with Man Utd at this stage] though the second leg will be tough too."
Goalscorer Andre Ayew also gave his thoughts to reporters after his late goal. "It was a good result at home. This victory makes us feel good. We must continue to work, work, work," the Ghana international told TF1.
"Our fans are happy and we will do everything to make them even happier in all competitions."
Following the victory, Marseille encounter Inter in the second leg at San Siro on March 13. Both sides return to league action at the weekend, with L'OM visiting Stade Brestois as Claudio Ranieri's men tackle Napoli in Serie A.
How do you stay up with football when on the move? With http://m.goal.com – your best source for mobile coverage of the beautiful game.
-
Lambert the latest in EPL manager merry-go-round
The Scot officially left Norwich City on Saturday to become the second new boss in June, following the appointment of Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool on Friday
-
Cartoon: Hodgson takes a cautious approach
Goal.com cartoonist Omar Momani gives us his unique take on the football news of the day
-
In Pictures: The best and worst kits at Euro 2012
The European Championship is just around the corner and Goal.com distinguishes between the trendy and the passe at the prestigious tournament
-
Argentina playing it safe by leaving out Riquelme
The unpredictable stars have been overlooked in favour of the coach's Estudiantes favourites, but the importance of a bit of magic in midfield should not be forgotten
-
England face an important test against Belgium
Saturday's friendly against Belgium is the coach's last chance to solve several selection dilemmas ahead of the Three Lions' tournament opener against Les Bleus