“Historic, exceptional, incredible”, all the superlatives in the world are not enough to describe the joy of the supporters of the Espaly-Saint-Marcel football club (National 3) this Monday morning. Gathered by dozens at the Rocher bar, they have known since Sunday evening the name of their opponent in 16es of the French Cup final: a certain Paris-Saint-Germain.
“It’s going to be a very nice party”
“It’s Christmas before its time,” declares Karine, a supporter of the club for ten years. “It’s the first time we’ve reached this stage of the competition and we’re going to play Paris. It’s a superb spotlight on the city,” rejoices Jean-Pierre, a supporter since 1971 (the club having been created in 1968, Editor’s note). Inside the establishment, young and old share one of the most beautiful moments in the history of their team.
Cyril, bar manager, is also delighted. “We opened exceptionally on Sunday for the draw and we opened again early this Monday morning so the night was short” he smiles. “I'm really happy that Espaly is playing the biggest team in the French championship. It's going to be a great party. »
“With a brave heart, nothing is impossible”, some supporters believe in the feat
Although most supporters are careful not to make a prediction against the Parisian ogre, some want to believe it. “With a brave heart, nothing is impossible. We may have a 1% chance, but I think that if we manage to score, it could make the difference,” Jean-Pierre explains. An opinion shared by Noah, 15 years old, at the club since he was 4 years old. “The match will be very complicated but nothing is impossible. We will have to play the counterattacks to the fullest. » “We are lucky to receive and the pitch can make the difference,” adds Zeli, 14 years old.
“More than a club, a family”
There is one thing fans agree on: the January 15 event is going to be celebrated as a “party.” The culmination of several years of work. “FC Espaly is more than a football club, it’s a family. We have remained a small village of 3,500 inhabitants where everyone knows each other and passes on their knowledge from one generation to the next. This is what makes it strong,” insists Marco, an early supporter who has taken on the roles of player, coach and president within the institution.
