LENS, France — Marseille emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Lens in a French league match on Saturday, aided by a late intervention from VAR that favored the visitors.

Danish midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg secured the win with a free kick in the dying moments of the game, specifically in the 89th minute. This opportunity arose after Rémy Labeau-Lascary had his potential equalizer disallowed due to a foul committed by Angelo Fulgini during the build-up.

The decision sparked frustration among the home crowd, who expressed their displeasure through loud whistles, especially when former Lens player Elye Wahi entered the field for Marseille.

Marseille took the lead early in the second half, courtesy of Valentin Rongier’s goal. This was set up by Neal Maupay, who received a well-placed pass from Mason Greenwood, allowing him to penetrate the defensive line. Brazilian striker Luis Henrique extended their advantage to 2-0 just moments later in the 57th minute during a counterattack.

Despite the deficit, Lens fought back with Fulgini scoring from close range in the 80th minute after M’Bala Nzola’s previous attempts were thwarted near the goal line. Labeau-Lascary appeared to have netted the equalizer just six minutes later, but the referee’s call for a foul by Fulgini had already made the potential goal moot.

This victory reinforced Marseille’s hold on third place, marking their third consecutive away win. In contrast, Roberto De Zerbi’s Lens team struggled, having not secured a win in their last three home matches.

Before the match commenced, a touching moment unfolded as former Lens president Gervais Martel, recovering from a serious illness, performed a ceremonial kick. The 70-year-old was visibly emotional as he received a warm reception from fans, who unveiled a large banner expressing gratitude for his leadership, while players donned shirts emblazoned with his name in solidarity.

Later on Saturday, Lyon was set to face Reims, while St. Etienne was hosting another struggling team, Montpellier.