Football Full View

# Saliba's Marseille Goal Records: A Journey Through Champions League History

The name of Djamel Saliba is etched into the history of Olympique de Marseille, not just for his goal-scoring prowess but for the incredible records he set during his time with the club. A striker whose career spanned the late 90s to the early 2000s, Saliba became a symbol of hope and success for a team that had struggled in European competitions for decades.

## A Record-Breaking Goal in the Group Stage

Saliba's most iconic moment as a Marseille player came in the 2002-03 Champions League season. In the group-stage match against FC Porto, Saliba scored a stunning goal from outside the box that left goalkeeper Ricardo **. This goal, scored in the 117th minute of the match, not only secured a 1-0 victory for Marseille but also set a new record: the latest goal ever scored in a Champions League match.

## A Semifinal Masterclass

The 2002-03 campaign was a special one for Marseille. Saliba played a pivotal role in their journey to the final, including a thrilling semifinal against Liverpool. In that match, Saliba once again proved his worth with a clinical finish, helping Marseille advance to the final. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a fan favorite and a key asset in the team's run.

## The Final Heartbreak

Although Marseille fell short in the 2002-03 final against Chelsea, Saliba's performance in the match was unforgettable. His early goal gave Marseille the lead, but Chelsea's dominance in extra time and the subsequent penalty shootout meant Saliba's team fell just shy of glory. Nonetheless,Bundesliga Express his goal in the final remains a defining moment in Marseille's history.

## A Legacy of Records

Saliba's contributions to Marseille extend beyond just the goals he scored. He holds the distinction of being the first player to score in a Champions League final for the club, and his 10 goals during the 2002-03 campaign remain the highest by any Marseille player in a single season. His late, explosive goals and his leadership on the pitch inspired a generation of fans and players alike.

## A Symbol of Belief

For a club that had waited decades to make a significant impact in Europe, Saliba's goals brought hope and pride to the fans of Marseille. His performances were a testament to resilience and determination, proving that even against the best teams in the continent, Marseille could compete and create memorable moments.

Today, Saliba's legacy as a Marseille icon is celebrated, and his goal records continue to be referenced as milestones for future players. His journey through the Champions League with Olympique de Marseille will always be remembered as a story of triumph, heartbreak, and enduring belief.

• Goal
• Records
• Journey
• Marseille
• Saliba