OGC Nice Defeats Strasbourg 2-0 to Reach Coupe de France Final Against Lens

In a decisive Coupe de France semi-final at Stade de la Meinau on April 22, OGC Nice edged out Racing Club de Strasbourg 2-0, securing their spot in the final against RC Lens on May 22 at the Stade de France. Elye Wahi was the star of the match, scoring both goals that sealed the victory for Nice.

Despite Strasbourg controlling 66% possession and taking significantly more shots in the first half, they struggled to convert chances into goals. Nice's goalkeeper Maxime Dupé was crucial in maintaining the clean sheet, notably making a sharp reflex save against Julio Enciso in the 78th minute. The first half ended goalless, with Nice creating early threats including a shot from Wahi that hit the post.

The breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Jonathan Clauss intercepted the ball and delivered a precise pass to Wahi, who finished to put Nice ahead. Strasbourg pressed for an equalizer but were undone by defensive errors, including mistakes from Ismaël Doukouré that contributed to Nice’s chances. Mohamed-Ali Cho’s involvement in winning the foul that led to a penalty further swung momentum in Nice’s favor. A VAR review in the 82nd minute confirmed a foul in the box, and Wahi confidently converted the penalty for his second goal.

Strasbourg's captain Emmanuel Emegha struggled throughout the match, managing just eleven touches without creating significant threats, while Samir El Mourabet was a bright spot despite the defeat. With this win, Nice will contest their first Coupe de France final since 2022 and aim for their fourth title, having previously won in 1952, 1954, and 1997.

Strasbourg, currently eighth in Ligue 1, now shift their focus to the UEFA Conference League for potential European qualification, as the cup route closes. Nice, sitting 15th in Ligue 1, demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, with coach Claude Puel’s side capitalizing on counter-attack opportunities and maintaining a robust defense.

This match sets the stage for an anticipated final between two resilient sides, with Nice aiming to build on this critical victory against a strong Lens team who advanced after a commanding 4-1 win over Toulouse.