Strasbourg Triumphs Over Reims with Two Late Penalties to Reach Coupe de France Semi-Finals

Strasbourg secured a dramatic 2-1 victory against Stade de Reims in the Coupe de France quarter-final on Tuesday night at the Meinau Stadium, advancing to the semi-finals for the first time in 25 years. The encounter was tightly contested, with Strasbourg, currently eighth in Ligue 1, dominating possession against a resolute Reims defense deployed in a 5-4-1 formation. Despite persistent pressure, it wasn't until the final ten minutes that Strasbourg broke through.

The decisive moments came through two late penalties. Joaquin Panichelli opened the scoring in the 83rd minute after a handball by Reims' Patrick, calmly converting from the spot. Just four minutes later, Julio Enciso netted a second penalty following a foul by Reims' goalkeeper Alexandre Olliero, who nonetheless delivered a strong individual performance throughout the match. Reims, the last Ligue 2 team remaining in the competition and sitting third in their league, managed to pull a late consolation goal in stoppage time through Patrick Zabi at the 90+4 minute mark, but it was insufficient to change the outcome.

Throughout the match, Strasbourg hit the woodwork three times and created numerous chances, reflecting their determination and attacking intent. This result comes after Strasbourg's recent solid performances, including draws against Ligue 1 top contenders, signaling their rising form under coach Gary O’Neil.

With PSG already eliminated, Strasbourg now eyes a deep run in the tournament, awaiting the outcomes of other quarter-final matches involving Lorient-Nice, OM-Toulouse, and OL-Lens. Their upcoming semi-final berth recalls their last appearance in 2001, when they secured their third Coupe de France title.

The match was broadcast live on BeIN Sports 1, capturing the attention of football fans eager to witness Strasbourg's renewed ambitions and the thrilling conclusion to a hard-fought contest.