Le Mans FC made history on December 22, 2024, with a resounding 7-0 victory over FC Marmande during the 32nd round of the Coupe de France at the Stade Georges-Dartiailh, marking their progression to the next round for the first time since the 2010-2011 season.
The match began with immediate intensity as Le Mans FC, competing two levels higher than their amateur counterparts from Marmande, took control early. Within the first ten minutes, goals from Alexandre Lauray and Antoine Rabillard set the tone for the match, giving the visiting team a commanding 2-0 lead.
Despite the overwhelming odds, FC Marmande's players displayed resilience and fought valiantly. The club, known as the "Petit Poucet" of the competition, was competing for the first time at this stage after being repêché following the disqualification of Vierzon, which had granted them entry after their earlier elimination. "It's a historic moment for Marmande, but we were up against serious opposition today," stated co-president Lyazid Bahlali.
Le Mans FC continued their onslaught with Harold Voyer scoring the third goal from a well-placed header off a corner. Just minutes later, Arnold Vula showcased his scoring prowess by netting his first goal of the night, quickly followed by two more, marking his hat-trick within the match. Vula's performance was instrumental, bringing excitement to the Manceaux supporters who traveled to Marmande to cheer on their team.
FC Marmande had entered the competition with high hopes following their impressive run earlier. The club had achieved its best performance to date, reaching the eighth round before being eliminated prior to receiving another chance to prove themselves. Their path to the 32nd round was filled with fervor and community support, as they prepared to host such a prestigious encounter.
The atmosphere at the stadium was electric, with around 3,500 spectators witnessing the event. The local community rallied behind their team, filling the stands and hoping for magic on the pitch, but the quality of play from Le Mans was clear. Coach Patrick Videira emphasized the need for his players to maintain humility entering the match and to treat every opponent with respect. “We don’t want to be one of the surprises; we came here to perform,” Videira stated before kick-off.
After the sixth goal scored by Vula, it became increasingly evident the match was slipping away from the hosts. Le Mans maintained their defensive discipline, effectively stifling any attempts by the Marmande forwards. Even though Marmande had previously gone four matches without conceding, they were unable to replicate this success against their formidable opponents.
Despite the one-sided scoreline, the team spirit remained strong at Marmande, with fans continuing to rally support for their club. The defeat, albeit heavy, showcased the passion and determination of the players. There was pride for the club’s achievements, with Bahlali reflecting, “We may have lost today, but this has been one of the greatest sporting experiences for our club.”
Looking back at the match's development, it was evident from the outset how well-prepared Le Mans was, exploiting their opponents’ weaknesses and delivering clinical finishing. The gap between professional football and the amateur game was starkly illustrated as FC Marmande struggled to keep pace with the relentless attacking play of the Manceaux.
The competition’s history is filled with “David vs. Goliath” tales, where underdog teams have triumphed against the odds. Yet, on this day, it was Le Mans FC who wrote the narrative, demonstrating their status as serious contenders aiming for advancement deep within the competition. The win also serves as motivation for future Cup matches, propelling them forward as they await the draw for the next round.
Le Mans FC's performance not only secured their spot for the 16th round for the first time since their remarkable campaigns but also underscored their growth under coach Videira. His leadership and foresight have begun to bear fruit, as exemplified by their prolific scoreline and deserved victory.
For FC Marmande, the loss was bittersweet but liberally infused with lessons learned and aspirations for the future. They aimed to bolster their club's efforts, focusing on training and development to prepare for subsequent seasons. "We look forward to next year; this Cup run has ignited hope for greater achievements to come," Bahlali remarked.
After this significant match, Le Mans FC’s players and fans celebrated with jubilation, fueled by the excitement of progressing to the next stage against unlikely odds. Meanwhile, FC Marmande's supporters took pride in their team’s admirable effort to reach the 32nd round, signifying their potential to achieve great things moving forward.
With passion and commitment evident from both sides, the Coupe de France delivered yet another chapter worth remembering, highlighting not only the beauty of the game but also the incredible spirit of competitors at all levels. This year's competition promises to continue as Le Mans FC sets their eyes on the next match, eager to seize the moment.
