In a thrilling encounter at the Stade Raymond-Kopa, Angers SCO clinched a crucial 2-1 victory over Strasbourg on Saturday, May 10, 2025, securing their place in Ligue 1 for another season. The match, part of the 33rd round of Ligue 1, was highlighted by a stunning performance from Esteban Lepaul, who scored both goals for the home side.
From the outset, Angers showed determination and aggression, putting pressure on the Strasbourg defense early in the match. Their efforts paid off in the 15th minute when Lepaul capitalized on a defensive error, firing a powerful shot past goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic to give Angers a 1-0 lead. Lepaul's strike was a testament to his ability to find the back of the net when it mattered most, and it marked his ninth goal of the season.
Despite falling behind, Strasbourg regrouped and began to assert themselves in the match, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. However, their attempts were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and solid defending from Angers. The visitors finally found their equalizer just before halftime, as Dilane Bakwa skillfully maneuvered past a defender and struck a precise shot to beat Angers' goalkeeper Yahia Fofana in the 43rd minute, leveling the score at 1-1.
As the second half commenced, Angers came out with renewed vigor. Just three minutes after the restart, Lepaul struck again, this time with a well-placed header from a free kick taken by Lilian Rasiloa. This goal, coming in the 48th minute, restored Angers' lead at 2-1 and sent their fans into a frenzy. Lepaul's performance not only showcased his scoring prowess but also his importance to the team's survival in Ligue 1.
The match continued with Strasbourg pushing hard for another equalizer, but they struggled to break down Angers' resolute defense. A near miss from Abdelli and a shot that hit the woodwork from Raolisoa kept the visitors hopeful, but they could not find the finishing touch. The defeat marked the end of a remarkable 12-match unbeaten streak for Strasbourg, a significant setback in their pursuit of European qualification.
With this victory, Angers climbed to 13th place in the league standings, now sitting on 36 points—three points clear of the relegation zone. Coach Alexandre Dujeux expressed his pride in the team's performance, highlighting their resilience and ability to secure the vital win. "We showed tremendous heart today, and the boys fought hard for every ball," Dujeux said. "This win is a testament to our spirit and determination to stay in Ligue 1."
Esteban Lepaul, the star of the match, was elated after the game. Reflecting on his performance, he stated, "I want everyone who has to fight for survival to know what it feels like to secure it. Scoring important goals is what drives me. I’m thrilled for the team and the fans who supported us today." His comments underscored the significance of the match for Angers, who were fighting to avoid relegation.
Strasbourg, on the other hand, faced a harsh reality check. Coach Liam Rosenior lamented the missed opportunities and the defensive lapses that led to their downfall. "We had chances to win the game, but we didn’t take them. It’s disappointing to lose, especially when we were in a good position to challenge for Europe," Rosenior remarked. The defeat leaves Strasbourg in 6th place, with their hopes of finishing in a Champions League qualifying position now hanging by a thread.
As the season approaches its climax, both teams have a lot to play for. Angers will look to build on this momentum in their final match, while Strasbourg will need to regroup quickly to salvage their European aspirations. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the league heads into the final round.
This match not only showcased the unpredictability of Ligue 1 but also highlighted the dramatic narratives that unfold in the world of football. With teams battling for survival and others vying for European glory, the final matches of the season promise to deliver more excitement and drama.
In the end, Angers’ victory was not just about points; it was a statement of resilience and determination, proving that in football, anything is possible when you fight until the final whistle. As the fans celebrated, the atmosphere at the Stade Raymond-Kopa was electric, a fitting reward for a team that had faced adversity head-on.
