Liverpool: Liverpool took a significant step towards securing a spot in the Champions League last 16 with a decisive 3-0 victory against Marseille. Mohamed Salah marked his return to the starting lineup, contributing to the Reds' impressive performance at the Velodrome, as reported by beIN Sports.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring for Liverpool just before half-time, setting the tone for the remainder of the match. An own goal from Marseille's goalkeeper, Geronimo Rulli, and a late strike by Cody Gakpo further solidified Liverpool's win in the second half.

Arne Slot's team, maintaining an unbeaten streak of 13 matches, climbed to fourth in the 36-team table. A victory against Qarabag at Anfield next week would ensure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the next round.

Marseille, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, delivered a lackluster performance, leaving them in 19th place. They now face a challenging task at Club Brugge in their final league match to qualify for the knockout play-off round.

The match saw Salah make his first start for Liverpool since November, following his involvement in Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations campaign. His absence from the squad in previous matches had stirred controversy, with Salah expressing dissatisfaction at being left out.

Liverpool dominated early in the game, with Joe Gomez and Alexis Mac Allister both coming close to scoring. Despite a disallowed goal for Marseille's Hugo Ekitike and some promising attempts by the home side, it was Szoboszlai's free-kick that broke the deadlock.

Marseille showed some promise in the second half, but Alisson's saves and Ekitike's missed opportunities kept them at bay. Liverpool's victory was sealed when Rulli inadvertently turned Jeremie Frimpong's cross into his own net. Cody Gakpo added to Marseille's woes with a late goal in injury time.

The win positions Liverpool favorably for their upcoming matches, with their sights set firmly on advancing in the prestigious tournament.