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Marseille out to secure Champions League

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-05-20 15:54

PARIS - Olympique Marseille can still mathematically retain their Ligue 1 title but their home game against Valenciennes is likely to give them the opportunity to secure second spot that will guarantee them a participation in the Champions League's group stage.

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"Lille are almost sure to be champions so congratulations to them. But there are still two matches to be played, including Saturday's, that should secure us a participation in the Champions League," coach Didier Deschamps told reporters.

Marseille need one point to make sure they will finish second in Ligue 1.

Lille will be crowned champions ahead of Marseille if they draw at Paris St Germain or if they do not get a worse result than the Provence side, who host Valenciennes.