FC Martigues celebrated their much-anticipated return to the Francis Turcan Stadium on January 24, 2025, achieving a resounding 3-0 victory against Amiens SC. After months away due to renovations needed to meet Ligue 2 requirements, the club's return was filled with excitement and optimism.
To mark this significant occasion, FC Martigues offered free admission to spectators for the Canal Tribune section. This initiative, made possible through support from the city of Martigues, was warmly welcomed by fans eager to witness the team play on their home turf once more. "We are pleased to inform you the tickets for the match FC Martigues - Amiens SC will be free for everyone at the Canal Tribune!" announced the club on their social media channels.
Newly appointed head coach Hakim Malek expressed his optimism about the team's potential, stating, "When I saw the players at training on the pitch of the stadium, I felt their happiness to find their home again. That's why I am optimistic." This sentiment was echoed by club owner Lepa Galeb-Roskopp, who confidently stated, “We will win against Amiens tonight!”
The match itself was nothing short of spectacular for the home team. Martigues quickly set the pace with forward Yanis Hadjem scoring just six minutes in, firing up the crowd. Following Hadjem's lead, Oualid Orinel found the net at the 24th minute, with Karim Tili sealing the impressive performance by scoring before halftime. The team displayed relentless energy and strategy, overwhelming their opponents, who were hoping to capitalize on Martigues' previously poor form.
Despite losing their last match against Grenoble by 1-0, the confidence instilled by their return to the stadium served them well. This victory not only marked their first home game of the season but also signified a potential turning point for the club, who were sitting at the bottom of the Ligue 2 standings.
Throughout the game, the atmosphere at Francis Turcan was electric as former fans witnessed the home team finally return to their base. The renovations having concluded meant this match was the first opportunity for the local fan base to unite and support their team. With chants echoing through the stands, it became clear how much both the players and supporters had missed this connection.
Martigues' ability to perform at home is seen as pivotal for their campaign to avoid relegation. According to Nisa Saveljic, executive of FC Martigues, "Our goal is to fight for survival, and we can aim higher with the support of our stadium." Currently, with only twelve points on the board, they remain behind Troyes, the first non-relegation team, by just nine points. The battle for re-establishment will not come easy; nonetheless, this victory offers quite the spark and morale boost as they seek to climb the ranks.
Following the match, Malek's tactical choices were praised, and players like Hadjem and Orinel received accolades for their outstanding performances. The pressure will be on as the team prepares for their upcoming matches, but their return has already sparked hope and determination. Even Amiens' head coach Omar Daf admitted his team was thoroughly outplayed, noting he would have made multiple substitutions if allowed, highlighting the dominance Martigues displayed.
Overall, the 3-0 triumph against Amiens marks not just another win but signifies the return of spirit and ambition to FC Martigues. This event was not merely about football; it was about reuniting with their community and rekindling pride. The club will now focus on consolidations for survival, but with this energizing start, the sky seems the limit.