European Football: Marseille make up ground

THE defending French champions, Marseille, got back on track as they handed Auxerre their first home defeat for two years, writes Richard Wetherell. Jocelyn Angloma scored just before half- time and, with three minutes left, the Croat Alen Boksic made it 2-0. Seeking their fifth successive title, Marseille gained a point on the leaders, Monaco, who were held to a goalless draw at Lens.

Bobby Robson's Sporting Lisbon were whistled off the pitch at the end of their 1-0 home defeat by Salgueiros. The only goal came in the 89th minute when the visitors were down to nine men after both Stevan Milovac and Luis Franca were sent off for their second bookable offences.

The battle of the big names in Spain resulted in a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid against Barcelona. The second half of the season got off to a fractious start with eight players being booked - Barcelona lost that as well, 5-3. A penalty by Michel Gonzalez in the 41st minute proved the difference and moved the home side above Barcelona into second place.