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Football

16th May 2018

Football fans confused by Marseille’s Europa League final kick-off

Although it shouldn't have come as much of a surprise...

Simon Lloyd

Those that are used to watching Marseille will know that their kick off against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night was nothing new…

The French club started the Europa League final in Lyon by sending the ball – quite deliberately – out for a throw-in deep inside Atleti’s half, clearly happy to surrender possession in favour of putting their opponents under a bit of pressure.

Although this is something they’ve done in every game they’ve played this season, many of those watching – BT Sport’s commentary team included – were caught by surprise by the tactic.

Many of those watching were quick to comment on Twitter, plenty of them likening it to something they’d expect to see during a rugby match.

https://twitter.com/UnrealPogba/status/996824980435406848

https://twitter.com/ahadfooty/status/996824998357749760

https://twitter.com/cfcgazz/status/996824826064134144

Atleti started the game as favourites, although their supporters were significantly outnumbered by Marseille supporters in the stadium. Antoine Griezmann, in possibly his final game for the Spanish club, scored the opening goal shortly after the 20 minute mark.