Marseille held goalless by Lille, Metz edge Bastia in Ligue 1

Fifth-ranked Marseille were held 0-0 by Lille in their contest for next football season's European spot, while Metz claimed crucial three points to aviod relegation after taking on Bastia's own goal for a 1-0 home win in Ligue 1.

With two more games played, Marseille trailed Lyon, who will visit defending champions Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday, by four points, also facing challengers Bordeaux three points behind. Lille moved up to 14th past Montpellier, reports Xinhua news agency.

Goalkeepers from both sides came into the spotlight, as Lille's Vincent Enyeama blocked Remy Cabella's shot in the 34th minute, and his Marseille counterpart Yohann Pele also did a good job on Rony Lopes's attempt shortly after the restart, the Lille's first shot on target.

Metz, who failed to win in their last five league appreances, built a lucky lead early in the second half, as Gilles Cioni handed an own goal on 47 minutes.

Metz provisionally climbed up to 13th, while relegation-threatened Bastia remained second from the bottom with 25 points from 30 games.

Third-ranked Nice will meet Nantes on Saturday. Leaders and Champions League quarterfinalists Monaco will visit Caen on Sunday.

--IANS

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