# French Football: Payet Scores Free-Kick and Marseille Narrowly Wins 1-0
In a tense finish to the weekend's football action, Marseille secured a narrow victory over Lille on Saturday night. The match was played in the Stade de France, home to the French national team, and featured several high-scoring moments.
### Match Overview
Marseille, led by manager Claude Puel, took the lead with a goal from Pierre-Yves Payet just before halftime. The midfielder delivered a beautifully crafted free-kick from the left side that deflected off a defender and found its way into the net for his first league goal since joining the club last summer.
Lille, despite their strong start, were unable to capitalize on any opportunities during the second half. Their defense held firm throughout, preventing any further goals from being scored.
### Key Moments
1. **Payet's Goal**: Marseille opened the scoring with a stunning strike. The ball was floated towards the box, and Payet's header came crashing down into the net.
2. **Lille's Close Call**: In the final minutes, Lille had a chance to equalize when a cross from the right wing found its way between the legs of Marseille goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. However, the effort was saved.
3. **Final Moments**: With 5 minutes left, Marseille had the opportunity to stretch their lead. A corner kick was set up but was not converted into a goal.
### Conclusion
Despite Lille's best efforts, Marseille managed to hold onto their advantage and secure a crucial point against their rivals. The win leaves Marseille in third place in the table, only three points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain. This result is particularly significant given Marseille's recent struggles under Puel, who has been working to rejuvenate the club.
The match showcased Marseille's attacking prowess, with Payet's goal proving pivotal. It also highlighted the defensive solidity of Lille, which was tested by Marseille's quality play.
As Marseille look to maintain their position in the top four, this win serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining focus and staying competitive throughout the season.