Dominik Szoboszlai produced a moment of sheer ingenuity as Liverpool secured a commanding win over Marseille, scoring an outrageous under-the-wall free kick that immediately became one of the goals of the European season. Known for his long-range thunderbolts, the Hungarian midfielder surprised everyone with a finish that relied more on intelligence than power, yet carried the same level of class.
Liverpool survive hostile Marseille atmosphere
Liverpool travelled to face Olympique de Marseille at the Stade Vélodrome in a crucial UEFA Champions League league-phase fixture, knowing a positive result would significantly strengthen their position in the group. The atmosphere was intense from kickoff, with Marseille pressing aggressively and attempting to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm early.
Despite the pressure, Liverpool gradually imposed themselves through midfield control and patient circulation. The visitors created the clearer chances in the opening half, forcing Marseille to defend deep while relying on counter-attacks that were largely dealt with by Liverpool’s back line.
The free kick that stunned everyone inside the stadium
The defining moment arrived in first-half stoppage time when Liverpool were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area. As Marseille set up a conventional wall, including a player positioned behind it to block any low effort, Dominik Szoboszlai stood over the ball with calm assurance.
Instead of opting for his trademark power, Szoboszlai drilled the free kick under the jumping wall, exploiting the brief moment when defenders left the ground. The ball skidded cleanly into the corner, leaving the goalkeeper stranded and the home crowd stunned. It was a goal built on awareness, timing and technical precision, making it special even by Szoboszlai’s high standards.
Liverpool finish the job after break
The breakthrough changed the tone of the contest. Marseille were forced to open up in search of an equaliser, which played into Liverpool’s hands. The visitors controlled the second half with maturity, limiting Marseille’s opportunities while continuing to threaten on the break.
Liverpool doubled their advantage midway through the half when sustained pressure resulted in a defensive error leading to an own goal, further shifting momentum decisively in their favour. The game was put beyond doubt late on as Liverpool added a third goal through Cody Gakpo, capping a composed and clinical away performance.
Szoboszlai’s growing influence
Beyond the goal, Szoboszlai’s overall display underlined why he has become central to Liverpool’s midfield identity. He dictated tempo, pressed aggressively out of possession and consistently offered an outlet between the lines. His willingness to take responsibility in high-pressure moments stood out, particularly in an environment as demanding as the Vélodrome.
The free kick was another addition to his growing collection of spectacular goals, but its intelligence set it apart. It highlighted his ability to adapt and outthink opponents, not just overpower them, reinforcing his reputation as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.
Why the result mattered
In the context of the UEFA Champions League league phase, this win places Liverpool firmly in contention for automatic qualification to the knockout rounds. Scoring just before half-time in such a tense away fixture proved decisive, draining belief from Marseille and allowing Liverpool to manage the game on their terms.
For Szoboszlai, it was a statement moment on the continental stage, demonstrating composure, creativity and leadership when it mattered most. Goals like this are remembered not only for how they look, but for the intelligence behind them.
Match details
The match was played at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille as part of the UEFA Champions League league phase. Liverpool secured a 3–0 victory, with Dominik Szoboszlai opening the scoring with a first-half free kick before two second-half goals sealed the result.
