On a thrilling Saturday afternoon, May 10, 2025, the final day of Ligue 2 saw FC Lorient crowned champions, while Paris FC secured second place, and Martigues faced relegation. The day was filled with emotional highs and lows as teams battled for glory and survival in the league's concluding matches.
Lorient, needing only a point to guarantee their top position, delivered a stunning performance against Martigues, ultimately winning 5-1 at the Stade du Moustoir. The match was highlighted by a spectacular display from Eli Kroupi, who scored twice, bringing his season total to an impressive 22 goals, making him the league's top scorer.
The first half saw Lorient dominate possession and create numerous chances, but they struggled to break the deadlock until the very last moments of the half. Kroupi opened the scoring in the 45th+1 minute, capitalizing on a rebound from a powerful Silva shot that was parried by Martigues' goalkeeper, Etile.
However, the second half began with a shocking equalizer from Martigues, as Tlili found the back of the net, momentarily dampening the spirits of the Lorient fans. But the Merlus quickly regained control of the match, with Sambou Soumano, who had only just entered the game, scoring just 40 seconds later to restore Lorient's lead.
As the match progressed, Kroupi struck again in the 65th minute, netting his second of the day and sixth double of the season. The celebrations at the Moustoir were electric, with fans chanting, "We are the champions!" as the team continued to push for more goals.
Soumano added another goal late in the game, followed by Makengo, sealing a resounding 5-1 victory for Lorient. This triumph marked their return to Ligue 1 after a successful campaign in Ligue 2, where they finished with 15 wins in their last 17 home matches.
Meanwhile, Paris FC also celebrated a successful day at the Stade Charléty, defeating AC Ajaccio 2-0 in their final match at the venue before moving to the Stade Jean-Bouin next season. Jean-Philippe Krasso, who scored both goals for Paris FC, opened the scoring shortly after halftime with a well-placed header before doubling the lead in the 66th minute.
Despite the victory, the Paris FC players were aware that they were unable to snatch the title from Lorient, who had already established a commanding lead. The atmosphere in the stadium was jubilant, with fans cheering on their team as they celebrated their promotion to Ligue 1.
In the battle for survival, Martigues' defeat meant they were relegated to National, joining Caen, who had already been condemned to drop down the division. Clermont managed to secure a spot in the relegation playoffs, finishing 16th, and will face the third-placed team from National in a bid to retain their place in Ligue 2.
As for the playoffs, Dunkerque and Guingamp will compete for a chance to join Lorient and Paris FC in the top flight. Dunkerque will face Guingamp on May 14, and the winner will go on to challenge Metz on May 17 for a potential promotion playoff against the 16th-placed team in Ligue 1.
Throughout the league, the final day was filled with drama and excitement, with other notable results including Annecy's 3-1 victory over Grenoble, Bastia's 2-1 win against Caen, and Laval edging past Metz with a 3-2 scoreline. The Red Star drew with Dunkerque 1-1, while Rodez and Clermont also ended their match in a stalemate at 1-1.
As the season concludes, the focus now shifts to the playoffs and the battles for relegation, with teams eager to secure their futures in the league. FC Lorient's celebration as champions and Paris FC's successful campaign serve as a reminder of the fierce competition and passion that defines Ligue 2.
