On Friday, April 25, 2025, the Stade Lavallois achieved a crucial victory against Amiens SC, winning 1-0 in a tightly contested match on the 32nd matchday of Ligue 2. The victory, secured by a late goal from veteran Jimmy Roye, keeps Laval's playoff hopes alive as they aim for a top-five finish.
The match took place at the Stade Francis-Le Basser, where 7,105 passionate supporters gathered to cheer on their team. From the outset, it was evident that both teams were determined to take home the three points. However, the first half was largely uneventful, with neither side managing a shot on target. The game was characterized by a strong defensive display from both teams, resulting in a stalemate.
As the second half commenced, the intensity of the match increased significantly. Amiens, under the guidance of coach Omar Daf, opted for a more defensive setup, employing a 5-4-1 or 3-4-3 formation that aimed to stifle Laval's attacking threats. Despite their defensive solidity, Amiens struggled to create clear-cut chances.
One of the best opportunities for Amiens came in the 33rd minute when Antoine Leautey delivered a perfect cross to Victor Lobry, who unfortunately failed to convert, sending his header off-target. This missed chance would prove costly as the game progressed.
In the 54th minute, Laval's Thomas Monconduit unleashed a powerful shot from distance, but it was expertly saved by Amiens goalkeeper Régis Gurtner. Just two minutes later, Laval's Sam Sanna struck the crossbar with a well-placed effort, leaving the crowd on the edge of their seats.
As the match approached its final stages, both teams began to push for a decisive goal. Laval's Malik Sellouki came close to scoring in the 83rd minute, but Rémy Vita made a stunning clearance off the line to deny him. This moment of defensive brilliance was emblematic of the hard-fought nature of the match.
However, the deadlock was finally broken in dramatic fashion in the 89th minute. Following a corner kick, Jimmy Roye, who had just been substituted into the game, found himself in the right place at the right time. He deftly redirected the ball into the net, sending the home fans into a frenzy. Roye's goal not only secured the win for Laval but also highlighted his experience and knack for being in the right position.
Despite the late setback, Amiens remained resilient and pushed for an equalizer. In stoppage time, Injai had a chance to level the score, but Samassa, Laval's goalkeeper, made a crucial save to preserve the victory. The match concluded with a final score of 1-0, a result that was both a relief and a boost for Laval as they continue to chase a playoff spot.
Post-match, Laval coach Olivier Frapolli expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly their ability to remain composed under pressure. "It was a tough match, but the players showed great character to keep pushing until the end," he said. Frapolli's side is now just two points behind fifth-placed Guingamp, who also won their match against Martigues 2-1 on the same night.
On the other hand, despite the loss, Amiens secured their Ligue 2 status due to Martigues' defeat. Coach Omar Daf was proud of his team's effort, stating, "We fought hard and showed resilience, but sometimes football is cruel. We had our chances but couldn't capitalize. However, our focus now shifts to finishing the season strong."
The match highlighted the ongoing struggles of Amiens in away fixtures, marking their 12th loss in 16 away games this season. Nevertheless, with their safety in Ligue 2 confirmed, the team can look to build for the future without the pressure of relegation looming over them.
As the season approaches its conclusion, Laval's victory keeps them firmly in the mix for the playoffs, with only two matches remaining. Their next challenge will see them travel to Dunkerque, where they will need to replicate their fighting spirit to keep their playoff ambitions alive.
The stakes are high as every match counts in the closing weeks of the season. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, Laval will be looking to build on this momentum and secure their place among the top teams in Ligue 2.
