On May 10, 2025, the Stade Sébastien Charléty was alive with excitement as the Paris FC faced off against AC Ajaccio in the final match of the Ligue 2 season. With a record attendance of 18,219 spectators, including notable figures such as Jürgen Klopp and Mario Gomez, the atmosphere was electric. Paris FC, already assured of promotion to Ligue 1, had their eyes set on clinching the Ligue 2 title. However, they needed a victory against Ajaccio and a slip-up from Lorient, who were playing Martigues at the same time.
The match kicked off with a palpable tension in the air. Paris FC, sitting second in the standings, was just two points behind Lorient. The stakes were high as every pass and shot could alter the outcome of the title race. Ajaccio, on the other hand, was comfortably positioned in 12th place, having secured their place in the league for next season. They entered the game with nothing to lose and were determined to play the role of spoilers.
Before the match, the stadium opened its doors at 15:00, inviting fans to enjoy various pre-game festivities, including inflatable structures, a dance battle by RedBull, and food-trucks offering a variety of culinary delights. The excitement was palpable, with Paris FC supporters eager to celebrate what had already been a successful season.
As the match progressed, the first half ended goalless, but the tension remained high. Paris FC had dominated possession, but Ajaccio's defense held firm. However, the breakthrough came just after the halftime whistle when Alimami Gory scored the opening goal for Paris FC in the 48th minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. This goal was a result of a shot from 30 meters that took a deflection off Ajaccio's Vidal, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.
Despite the excitement of the goal, the title hopes of Paris FC were dashed moments earlier when Lorient took the lead against Martigues, making the situation even more precarious for the Parisians. With the championship slipping away, Paris FC needed to secure their victory to end the season on a high note.
In the 66th minute, Jean-Philippe Krasso extended the lead to 2-0, scoring his 16th goal of the season with a powerful header from a well-placed cross by Ilan Kebbal. The celebrations erupted in the stands as the players embraced, knowing they had solidified their victory. The match concluded with a 2-0 scoreline, ensuring a memorable farewell to Ligue 2 for Paris FC.
While Paris FC celebrated their victory, they ultimately finished second in the league, as Lorient also won their match 5-1 against Martigues. This meant that although they had secured promotion, the coveted title would slip through their fingers. The disappointment was palpable, but the joy of promotion overshadowed it. As one player remarked before the match, "We play for history. This title is for our supporters, for the city." The sentiment resonated throughout the stadium, highlighting the connection between the team and its fans.
Ajaccio's season ended on a bittersweet note, as they finished with 42 points in 12th place. Despite the loss, their performance showcased their resilience and determination. The team had been assured of their safety from relegation weeks prior, allowing them to play freely without the pressure of competing for survival. Their president, Alain Orsoni, was present at the match alongside representatives from a Spanish group interested in purchasing the club, hinting at potential changes ahead.
The day was not just about the match; it was a celebration of Paris FC's journey back to Ligue 1 after years of struggle. The atmosphere at the Stade Charléty was described as the best seen since the club relocated there in 2007. Fans reveled in the moment, with one supporter stating, "Tonight, we are not just playing; we are living a dream."
As the final whistle blew, the players and fans celebrated together, marking the end of a successful season filled with highs and lows. The victory against Ajaccio, while not enough to claim the title, was a fitting conclusion to a campaign that saw Paris FC rise from the shadows of their more prominent city rivals.
Looking ahead, Paris FC will need to prepare for the challenges of Ligue 1, where they will face tougher competition. However, the spirit and determination shown throughout the season give fans hope for a bright future. For Ajaccio, the focus now shifts to addressing their financial challenges and ensuring stability as they prepare for the next season.
In the end, the final match of Ligue 2 on this day was a microcosm of the season itself—intense, emotional, and filled with unexpected twists. As fans left the stadium, they carried with them memories of a remarkable season and the promise of more excitement to come.
