Marseille beaten by Atlético Madrid, Balerdi whistled by home fans

Olympique Marseille concluded their preseason with a 2-1 defeat against Atlético Madrid at the Vélodrome, a result overshadowed by the whistles directed at defender Leonardo Balerdi. The loss comes just a week before Marseille's opening match in Ligue 1 against Strasbourg.

Marseille, managed by Bruno Genesio, had shown promise in the first half, with Igor Paixão opening the scoring in the 22nd minute after a cross from Amine Harit. Paixão has been a standout player for Marseille during the preseason, netting his fourth goal in preparation matches.

However, Atlético, coached by Diego Simeone, gradually took control. Rodrigo Mendoza equalized in the 39th minute following an error by Balerdi, whose performance drew the ire of the home crowd. Balerdi, who is reportedly a player who might depart the club, was whistled with every touch of the ball until his substitution late in the game.

In the second half, Marseille had chances to regain the lead through Timothy Weah and Amine Gouiri, whose shot hit the crossbar. Nevertheless, Atlético secured the victory in the 78th minute with a goal from Carlos Martin, capitalizing on a counter-attack that exposed Marseille's defense, including Balerdi, who was again jeered.