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Benjamin Pavard suffers two defeats with Olympique Marseille within a few days, concedes a penalty and scores an own goal. The former Bayern star experiences a nightmare week.
A week to forget for Benjamin Pavard! The former Bayern star lost 1-2 with Olympique Marseille in both the Champions League and Ligue 1. In both matches, the defender cut an unfortunate figure.
Pavard largely to blame for defeat
Things didn’t go much better for him on Saturday either, as he first conceded a penalty and then scored an own goal that sealed the defeat in the top match against RC Lens.
Since Opta began recording data in the 2006/07 season, no Marseille player has done this.
Pavard foul: VAR intervenes
After Mason Greenwood put the French top team in the lead, Pavard tried to stop Lens attacker Odsonne Edouard in a scramble in the 18th minute. He went in for a tackle and illegally fouled his opponent.
Initially, referee Stephanie Frappart ruled it was a dive and showed Edouard a yellow card. But video evidence intervened and after reviewing the images, a penalty was awarded. Pavard was then the one who received a warning.
“Pavard, the nightmare week”
After the break, Lens won a corner in the 52nd minute, which was headed on and which Pavard then unfortunately deflected into his own goal. A few moments later, coach Roberto De Zerbi took his protégé off the field.
The French newspaper L’Equipe wrote after the second defeat within four days: “Pavard, the nightmare week.”
Pavard apologizes
The former Bayern star commented on his unfortunate performance himself on Instagram, addressing the Marseille fans: “I’m sorry. This defeat is on me. I made mistakes and I take full responsibility for them.”
He added: “When you wear this jersey, you have to be flawless, but I wasn’t tonight. I promise you that I will do everything to regain your trust.”
Pavard thanked the fans for the support he received even during this difficult time.
Marseille coach takes Pavard out of the firing line
His coach De Zerbi backed his defender after the Lens defeat, emphasizing that he was very happy to have Pavard in his team.
“I spoke with Benjamin. He is a player who helps us. He was unlucky in Lisbon and tonight, but he remains a player who makes the difference,” the Italian told DAZN.
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