### Ligue 1 Round 25: Payet Scores Free-Kick - Marseille 1-0
In a thrilling encounter between Marseille and Nice in the first half of Ligue 1, Marseille secured their spot in the Champions League by outscoring their opponents 1-0 with a decisive free-kick from substitute Pierre-Yves Payet.
#### Match Highlights
The match began with both teams displaying high energy and intensity, as they eagerly awaited the opening goal to claim victory. Marseille controlled the majority of possession throughout the game, showcasing their technical superiority on the pitch.
#### Marseille's Dominance
Marseille dominated the midfield and were constantly pressing for opportunities. Their attacking line was well-coordinated, and their defense remained solid despite being without key players like Vincent Kompany due to injury.
#### The Turning Point
Just before halftime, Marseille capitalized on a defensive lapse by Nice. A corner kick was delivered into the box, where Marseille’s forward Pierre-Yves Payet took advantage. Payet received the ball cleanly and calmly placed it into the net from a distance, giving Marseille a 1-0 lead at the break.
#### Second Half Recap
In the second half, Marseille continued to press, but Nice showed resilience and creativity in their attack. They managed to create several scoring chances, but Marseille’s defense held firm, preventing any further goals.
#### Final Score
With the win, Marseille moved up to seventh place in the table, while Nice fell to eighth. The result leaves Marseille confident about their position in the league standings and gives them a chance to qualify for the Champions League.
#### Player of the Game
Pierre-Yves Payet stood out for Marseille with his crucial free-kick, which proved to be the difference in the match. His performance demonstrated his ability to score under pressure and provide a spark in Marseille’s otherwise steady performance.
#### Conclusion
This match showcased Marseille’s dominance over Nice, highlighting their technical skills and tactical prowess. With this victory, Marseille maintained their momentum and remains a force to be reckoned with in Ligue 1. The team looks forward to continuing their impressive run in the upcoming rounds.