Stade de Reims advanced to the 16th round of the Coupe de France after delivering a commanding performance against AS Still-Mutzig, securing a 3-1 victory on December 22, 2024, at Molsheim. The match marked a significant moment for Still-Mutzig, as they reached the 32nd round for the first time as the club was newly formed in 2022.
The reigning Ligue 1 team, Reims, faced off against the amateur side from Régional 1, setting the stage for what was anticipated to be a challenging encounter. The match kicked off with intensity as Reims quickly asserted their dominance, establishing control early on.
Gabriel Moscardo opened the scoring for Reims just eight minutes after kickoff, setting the tone for the match. His goal came from a precise play where he received the ball and found the back of the net, prompting his teammates to rally at the early lead.
Reported widely, this moment was pivotal as it fueled the confidence of the Reims squad.
Despite the early setback, the Amateur side from Still-Mutzig rallied with tremendous spirit, demonstrating resilience throughout the match. After falling behind, they regrouped and began creating chances themselves.
Approximately 3000 fans were present, supporting their local team, adding to the electric atmosphere at the ground. The excitement peaked when Still-Mutzig managed to equalize at the 60-minute mark. A well-executed counterattack resulted in Thomas Schall finding the net, igniting cheers from the crowd. This goal not only leveled the score but also breathed new life and hope among the local supporters who believed in the possibility of what would be considered an upset.
Nonetheless, Reims' response was swift, as they were determined to reassert their dominance. Just five minutes after Still-Mutzig’s equalizer, Mamadou Diakhon, displaying skill and poise, received the ball from Nhoa Sangui and regained the lead for Reims. His shot was precise and left the opponent's goalkeeper with no chance.
Nhoa Sangui went on to solidify Reims’ advantage by scoring the third goal of the match at the 76th minute, with Keito Nakamura providing the assist. This goal underscored Reims’ control over the match, ensuring their progression to the next round of the competition.
With this victory, Stade de Reims demonstrated not just their skill, but their ability to keep composure under pressure. After the match, the Reims coach Luka Elsner praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of staying disciplined against determined opponents.
Still-Mutzig's extraordinary run came to an end, yet their efforts were commendable, especially for such a newly formed club achieving progress to the 32nd round of one of France’s most prestigious football competitions. Their beautifully chaotic match against Reims will be remembered as historic, marking the club's first significant exposure on such a large competitive stage.
With the victory, Reims gears up for the next round, eagerly awaiting to learn who their upcoming opponent will be, slated for January 15. The thrilling narrative of the Coupe de France continues to evolve, showcasing both elite teams and underdogs daring to defy expectations.
