The 32nd round of the 2024-2025 Coupe de France featured thrilling matches, showcasing the dramatic interplay between professional football clubs and amateur teams. This year, anticipation was high as clubs vied for advancement to the next stage of this prestigious tournament.
One of the standout matches took place at the Stadium de Molsheim, where Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims faced off against Regional 1 club Still/Mutzig. Reims started strong, with Gabriel Moscardo scoring within the first eight minutes, putting the professional team firmly on the front foot. The Alsaicanians, not easily intimidated, managed to pull level through Thomas Schall at the one-hour mark, sending sparks of hope among their passionate fans. Yet, just six minutes later, Mamadou Diakhon restored Reims' lead, and Nhoa Sangui sealed the 3-1 victory with another goal shortly after.
Another fascinating clash occurred at Geoffroy-Guichard, where AS Saint-Étienne took on the seasoned Olympique de Marseille. After their recent struggles, sitting precariously close to relegation, the Verts faced formidable opponents. Marseille struck first, with Mason Greenwood scoring early on. Things took a turn for the worse for Saint-Étienne when they received a red card just 21 minutes in, pushing them to fight against the odds. By halftime, Marseille led 2-0, largely controlling the match, demonstrating the stark difference between the two teams. Luis Henrique's third goal for Marseille cemented their dominance, concluding the match with the score at 3-0.
The financial dynamics of the Coupe de France also came to light during the competition. Following his team's defeat to FC Nantes, Alain Melaye, president of JA Drancy, expressed his frustration over the lack of tradition surrounding financial support from winning sides. "On nous fera un virement de 13 000 euros alors que le club a un budget de plusieurs dizaines de millions d’euros," he lamented, indicating the disparity between clubs of varying levels.
To clarify, Nantes president Waldemar Kita defended the club's decision to deduct their travel expenses from the share of the match revenue. He stated, "Nous avions décidé qu’on ôterait nos frais de déplacement, bus et hôtel, de notre part de recettes," which echoes the struggles smaller clubs face when competing against wealthier teams.
The day also brought additional matches showcasing the variability of results particularly significant for lower division clubs. For example, Bordeaux hosted Rennes, where the Girondins, longing to uplift their spirits following last season's administrative relegation, found themselves battling against the tide as they met 12th-place Rennes, still seeking consistency under their new coach, Jorge Sampaoli.
Though fans of Bordeaux were met with challenges, such as limited movements for Bretons due to rules limiting traveling fans, high hopes were placed on their team's performance. Enthusiasm for the Coupe de France was palpable among local supporters: the chance to rally behind their team against higher-ranked opposition.
Including other results of the 32nd round, Lens faced PSG to round off the day, presenting another contest between teams of differing levels. The exhilarating atmosphere and mutual respect between players and fans alike marked these encounters, creating memories and moments to cherish down the line.
Onlookers and fans alike were treated to exciting football, which embodies the spirit of the Coupe de France, where surprises are frequent, and determination shines brightly. With additional matches scheduled, all eyes will remain glued to the outcomes, as each club fights for the chance to chase their dreams of cup glory.
Across all five venues, the camaraderie and competition set forth the stage for what will surely be remembered as another remarkable chapter of the Coupe de France.
