PSG vs Marseille (1993 'Le Classique')

Lore & Background

The rivalry began in earnest in the 1980s, particularly after PSG won their first league title in 1986 and Marseille was acquired by businessman Bernard Tapie. By the end of the decade, the two clubs were competing closely for the Ligue 1 title, with tensions heightened by accusations of match-fixing and other controversies. In the 1990s, the rivalry intensified. French media company Canal+ purchased PSG in 1991, partly to challenge Marseille's dominance, while media coverage helped promote the animosity between the clubs.

Reader's Guide

The highest-scoring match in the fixture's history was a 4–3 PSG victory on 7 April 1979, with Carlos Bianchi scoring the decisive goal. The first meeting between the clubs took place on 12 December 1971 at the Stade Vélodrome, where Marseille secured a 4–2 victory. Josip Skoblar scored twice, while Bernard Bosquier and Didier Couécou also found the net, with Bosquier registering the first goal in the history of the Classique.

Did You Know?

• The rivalry has a female equivalent, featuring Paris Saint-Germain and OL Lyonnes (Lyon).
• PSG was founded in 1970 and, during their early years, did not operate at the same level as OM, one of the traditional powerhouses of French football.
• On 8 January 1978, after nine unsuccessful attempts (seven defeats and two draws), PSG finally defeated Marseille in the league, routing their opponents 5–1.