Bobigny’s Coupe de France Journey Ends in Heartbreak
FC 93 Bobigny’s impressive Coupe de France run came to a close this Sunday, as they fell 1-0 to SCO angers in the 32nd final. Despite a spirited performance and a fervent crowd of nearly 3,000, the Seine-Saint-Denis side couldn’t overcome the Ligue 1 outfit.
This marks the second time in a decade that Bobigny has reached the 32nd final, only to be eliminated. thier previous appearance in 2013 saw them lose 3-0 to Evian TG, then a Ligue 1 team. With JA Drancy’s exit at the hands of Nantes on Saturday, Paris Saint-Germain remains the sole representative from the ile-de-France region in the competition.
The match, played on a synthetic pitch, belied the three-division gap between the teams.Angers, currently battling relegation in Ligue 1, faced a determined Bobigny side that sits second in their National 2 group and harbors ambitions of reaching the National level.
Bobigny started brightly, threatening the Angers goal early on. Traoré forced a save from the Angevin goalkeeper in the 12th minute,while Lasme’s header was brilliantly parried by Zinga just seven minutes later. The N2 team showcased both physicality and technical prowess, with veteran midfielder Farid Beziouen, a former Red Star and JS Kabylie player, pulling the strings in midfield.
Angers, though, created the best chance of the first half. Lepaul’s incisive pass released Niane, who found himself one-on-one with Bobigny’s experienced goalkeeper sissoko. The 37-year-old veteran stood tall, denying Niane’s attempt.
The second half saw a more assertive Angers, pressing higher up the pitch. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Esteban Lepaul unleashed a stunning pivoting shot that found the back of the net with the help of the post, giving Angers a 1-0 lead.Bobigny coach Mohamed Coulibaly responded by introducing attacking reinforcements,including Baby Sako,a recent signing who had been sidelined for two years after a prosperous professional career with clubs like Saint-Étienne,Wolverhampton,and Crystal Palace. Former PSG midfielder Younousse Sankharé also entered the fray.
Despite their best efforts, Bobigny couldn’t find an equalizer, even with Beziouen’s late shot being cleared off the line by an Angevin defender in stoppage time. The dream of a Coupe de France upset faded as the final whistle blew, leaving Bobigny to reflect on a valiant effort against a higher-ranked opponent.
A Heroic Fight: Interview with Former PSG Midfielder Younousse Sankharé
This weekend, FC 93 Bobigny’s incredible Coupe de France run came to a heartbreaking end with a narrow 1-0 loss to Ligue 1 side SCO Angers. While the result might be disappointing, Bobigny’s valiant effort and spirited performance against a team three divisions above them should be commended. To get a better understanding of what it takes to compete at such a high level and potentially cause an upset, we reached out to former PSG midfielder and Bobigny substitute, Younousse Sankharé.
Moderator:
younousse, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You entered the match in the second half, witnessing firsthand Bobigny’s fight against Angers. What was your impression of the team’s performance?
Younousse Sankharé:
Firstly, immense respect to Bobigny for their incredible run in the coupe de France. They showed real heart and determination against a formidable opponent like Angers.Despite facing a Ligue 1 team, Basigny played with such courage and belief, never backing down from a challenge. They created chances, defended resolutely, and truly gave their all until the final whistle.
Moderator:
Bobigny’s coach, Mohamed Coulibaly, brought on several attacking reinforcements late in the game, including yourself and Baby sako. Did you see an opportunity to snatch an equalizer at that point?
Younousse Sankharé:
Absolutely. We knew a goal could fully change the momentum.
You could feel the belief from the Bobigny players, and the crowd was roaring them on. When Sako and I came on, the aim was to inject some fresh energy, utilize our experience, and find that crucial breakthrough. Regrettably,it wasn’t meant to be this time.
Moderator:
Looking at the broader picture, Bobigny has now reached the 32nd final of the Coupe de France twice in the last decade, only to fall short both times. What does this say about the club’s ambitions and their potential to make a real impact in French football?
Younousse Sankharé:
Reaching the 32nd final twice in ten years is a testament to Bobigny’s potential and their ability to compete with higher-ranked teams. It shows that they have a solid foundation, talented players, and a dedicated coaching staff. This experience will undoubtedly serve them well moving forward as they aim to climb the ranks of French football.
Moderator:
Bobigny’s journey in the Coupe de France has captured the hearts of many football fans in France. What advice would you give to aspiring young footballers who dream of replicating this kind of fairytale run?
Younousse Sankharé:
My advice is simple: never lose sight of your dream, work tirelessly to improve your game, and always believe in yourself.
Look at Bobigny, they proved that anything is possible in football. This underdog story should inspire young players to never give up, fight for every opportunity, and embrace the stunning game with passion and courage.
Moderator:
thank you, Younousse, for your insightful comments. This was a truly inspiring run by Bobigny, reminding us of the magic and unpredictability that makes the Coupe de France so captivating. What are your thoughts, readers? Did Bobigny deserve a better fate? Let us know in the comments below!
