SU Dives-Cabourg can write the most beautiful page in its history

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Saturday December 21, 2024 is a holiday in Dives-sur-Mer (Calvados). Carried by 1900 supporters in a sold-out Heurtematte stadium, the SU Dives-Cabourg players will try to write the most beautiful page in the club's history, by qualifying for the first time for the round of 16 of the Cup from France.

To do this, we will have to overcome Saint-Denis FC, a Reunion team which plays in regional 1, a division below. And everything suggests that it will not be a cakewalk.

An opponent to take seriously

Without insulting the Dragons of Tahiti, whom the Divais largely dominated in the previous round (6-1), the opposition promises to be much tougher this weekend.

Julien Le Pen has studied this other adversary from the other side of the world in detail. And to hear the SUDC assistant coach, there is no photo with the Tahitians.

“Saint-Denis plays in R1 because they cannot play higher, but the squad is made up of players who could play in N3, or even N2 for some. I am thinking, for example, of Mamoudou Diallo, who we know well in the region, or Dorian Bertrand, who played in Angers, Nancy or the Romanian championship.

The Reunion Islanders validated their ticket for the 32nd finals by eliminating Vertou (N3) on penalties in front of… 5,000 spectators.

A favorite status

The Divais have been warned, but they too will have arguments to put forward.

Even if they remain on two defeats in the league against Linas Montlhéry and Oissel, the teammates of goalkeeper Maxime Verrier are having a good season (Editor's note, eighth in the standings, with a match late) and leave with the favor of the forecasts.

Especially at home, and in temperatures to which the people of Reunion are not accustomed. When they left their island at the start of the week, it was almost 30°C.

“I always consider that we have a good draw when we play at home. The Coupe de France is a separate competition. Playing such a match in front of your home crowd is a chance. The players are aware of this,” underlines Julien Le Pen, who will experience his first 32nd final on a bench.

“It’s a game for a whole club”

A few hours before the event, the pressure is mounting. Apart from long-term injured players like Mathis Clément or Mickaël Marchal, the whole group is ready to give their all to get through this round and dream, why not, of drawing a Ligue 1 team to the next one.

“It’s a game for a whole club. Supporters, volunteers, leaders… These people accompany us throughout the year, they give their time to allow us to experience these moments. It’s up to us to give back to them on the ground. We will be there,” promises the assistant coach.

And four days before Christmas, a qualification would be the best gift to give them.

SU Dives-Cabourg – Saint-Denis FC Saturday December 21, 2024 at 3:30 p.m., at the Heurtematte stadium. Sold out match.

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