Robinio Vaz Experiences His First Major Setback

Olympique de Marseille faced a frustrating evening at Bollaert, losing 2-1 to a more aggressive and inspired RC Lens. After a strong start marked by Mason Greenwood’s opening goal, the Phocéens gradually retreated and conceded due to two defensive errors from Benjamin Pavard. Despite a heated atmosphere and a confident opponent, Roberto De Zerbi opted to stick to his offensive philosophy, entrusting the attack to Robinio Vaz. Making his first start in a significant Ligue 1 match, the 18-year-old French striker struggled to make an impact.

Since the start of the season, Robinio Vaz had emerged as a standout young player for Marseille. Deployed in various positions by De Zerbi, from winger to second striker and even a makeshift false nine, the young forward showcased versatility and freshness in the attacking third. With 2 goals and 2 assists in 7 appearances, the Mantes-La-Jolie native benefited from the coach’s rotation to earn recognition. His first start against Metz, marked by an assist, affirmed his potential. However, on Saturday night against Lens, Vaz encountered a completely different situation: a high-stakes league match in a lively stadium against a direct title rival, playing as a number 9 against a formidable defense. It was a crucial test, which he could not fully navigate successfully.

15 touches, 11 turnovers

In the match’s intensity, Vaz found it difficult to compete against Lens’s defense. Lacking space and constantly challenged by Samson Baidoo, the 34th player for OM struggled to find the rhythm to connect with Paixao and Greenwood. Isolated and often facing away from the play, he recorded only 15 touches, with 4 missed controls, 11 turnovers, and 4 failed passes from 6 attempts. His only shot from distance failed to trouble Robin Risser. As the match progressed, Vaz seemed to lose confidence and was substituted in the 52nd minute for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. His body language indicated he was aware of his disappointing performance. However, it’s important to consider his age and ongoing development.

At just 18 years old, Robinio Vaz is experiencing the demands of high-level French matches, where even minor technical mistakes can be costly. On this Saturday, the new fan favorite at the Vélodrome likely grasped what it means to “play up front” in such an intense match. There’s no need for alarm; the promise is still there, and Roberto De Zerbi continues to show great trust in him. “I have a soft spot for Robinio Vaz. He possesses two qualities I really like: hunger and the desire to improve. He surprises us in general. It’s not easy to step in at 18 years old at the Vélodrome. We’re very pleased,” said the OM coach at a press conference on Friday. The Italian understands that a young player’s growth involves navigating challenging evenings like this one, where experience is as valuable as statistics. Robinio Vaz experienced his first significant setback of the season, but such moments often pave the way for future certainties.