Toulouse Stuns Marseille In Ligue 1 Upset, US Fans React
Toulouse Stuns Marseille In Ligue 1 Upset, US Fans React...
Toulouse pulled off a dramatic 2-1 victory over Marseille in Sunday's Ligue 1 clash, sparking reactions from US soccer fans tuning in to the growing French league. The match, played at Toulouse's Stadium Municipal, saw midfielder Vincent Sierro score the 89th-minute winner after Marseille's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang equalized earlier.
The upset is trending in the US as American-owned Toulouse (backed by RedBird Capital) continues gaining attention stateside. Marseille, featuring US midfielder Konrad de la Fuente until his 63rd-minute substitution, remains in Champions League contention despite the loss.
Sunday's match drew unusual US viewership through beIN Sports' coverage, coinciding with increased American interest in European soccer beyond the Premier League. Social media reactions highlighted Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes' seven saves, including a critical stop against Aubameyang in stoppage time.
The result reshuffles Ligue 1's midtable, with Toulouse climbing to 10th place while Marseille stays 7th. Analysts note the growing US connection to French soccer, with 12 Americans now playing across Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. Marseille visits Villarreal in Europa League action Thursday, while Toulouse faces Lens next Sunday.
US-based Toulouse supporters' groups reported record engagement during the match, reflecting the club's strategic outreach to American fans since its 2020 takeover. The victory marks Toulouse's first home win against Marseille since 2018, with manager Carles MartÃnez dedicating the result to 'our new international supporters.'
