Stade de Reims secured their place in the French Cup final with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over fourth-division side AS Cannes on Wednesday, bringing an end to the underdogs’ remarkable journey in the competition. Reims will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the final at the Stade de France on May 24.
Ibrahim and Teuma Seal Victory
Reims took the lead in the 14th minute when Hafiz Ibrahim capitalized on a well-placed cutback to slot home. Despite their lower-league status, Cannes fought back admirably and found an equalizer early in the second half, with Cheikh Ndoye heading past the Reims goalkeeper in the 52nd minute.
However, Reims quickly regained control, as Maltese international Teddy Teuma struck the winning goal just six minutes later, finishing off an assist from Ibrahim to put his side back in front. Cannes pushed for a second equalizer, but Reims held firm to book their spot in the final.
Cannes’ Brave Run Comes to an End
AS Cannes, a club with a rich history that produced legends like Zinedine Zidane and Patrick Vieira, had dreams of reviving their former glory, having last won the French Cup in 1932. Their run to the semi-finals captured the imagination of French football fans, but they ultimately fell short against their Ligue 1 opponents.
Showdown with PSG Awaits
Reims will now prepare for their biggest test yet as they face 15-time French Cup winners Paris Saint-Germain, who defeated Ligue 2 side Dunkerque 4-2 in their semi-final on Tuesday. With PSG aiming to add yet another trophy to their collection, Reims will look to cause a major upset in the final at the Stade de France on May 24.
