Coupe de France (round of 16). Guingamp – Sochaux: 2-2 (9-8, tab)
This summer, he had already impressed. Against Stade Rennais (3-0), in particular, on July 31, his kicking game and his serenity struck the spirits while En Avant was fine-tuning its summer preparation. But the hierarchy was well established and Babacar Niasse had since disappeared from the radar. Such is the life of a N.2 goalkeeper. A scenario that he had also feared since his agents had looked for a way out for him, one year from the end of his contract, before the Breton club categorically opposed his departure.
In the heads of the shooters
The 28-year-old Mauritanian international wanted playing time. It was ultimately the Coupe de France which offered it to him thanks to a career to which he is no stranger.
Tuesday evening, in the round of 16, it was he who even sought qualification thanks to a masterclass against Sochaux (2-2, 9-8 tab). Two high-level saves during regulation time, including a last-second save to keep his team in the match, then three interventions during the penalty shootout. “He did something incredible,” said his teammate Jacques Siwe. He was man of the match. But I don't know how he does it, he gets into the shooters' heads. In training, facing him, I'm always a little stressed. »
Nine stops out of 13 possible
Before joining En Avant Guingamp, during the summer of 2023, he had made nine saves in the last 13 penalties or penalties he had faced. A specialist in the field who also didn't tremble when he went to score quietly with a flat foot.
“The qualities he demonstrated against Sochaux, I have seen them since I arrived,” confirms Sylvain Ripoll, his coach. He confirmed all the good things people think of him on an evening like this where he was more than decisive. » It must be said that in the shadow of Enzo Basilio, Niasse plays big in each round of the Coupe de France. For him, who will be at the end of his contract this summer, it remains the only way to attract a little light.
France
