Their series was good, with only one defeat in their last six outings in Ligue 2. It continued in Caen, against an opponent who was playing part of their survival. The kind of performance that leaves a lasting impression, even beyond the manner used.
Labeau's opportunism
Because this success was happy, we will not hide it. He owes a lot, first and foremost, to the opportunism of Brighton Labeau. On the lookout for a restart from Mandréa, the Caen goalkeeper, the Martinique player stole the ball from Moussounda's feet before unleashing an outside kick. It was then the only shot on target for Guingampais (1-0, 44'). It will stay that way until the end and it will be the only goal of this part.
At half-time, it was clearly the Caennais who deserved to lead. But Basilio, in another register, was just as perfect on Mendy's pivotal shot (5'), the ex-Guingampais' header (33') and Lecoeuche's point-blank shot (38').
The unity of the Guingampais
In front of the enterprising Caennais but sometimes overtaken by doubt, the Guingampais then deployed constant energy to hold on. It wasn't always easy. Luck accompanied them when Kyeremeh missed Mendy's cross with a spike (77'). But this victory is all the more beautiful, ultimately. In front of more than 14,000 spectators at the Michel-d'Ornano stadium, there was struggle and unity. This En Avant has found almost unsuspected resources for several days now, even since the start of the season. With a decimated squad (Vallier, Sagna, Phiri, Ghrieb, Siwe, Hemia…), to which was even added the last minute withdrawal of Maronnier, affected in the psoas (and the suspension of Sissoko), the Costarmoricans did once again miracles in Caen.
Sixth before kick-off, they are guaranteed to still be in the Top 5 on Monday evening, after the match between Annecy and Dunkirk, two of its competitors for the accession play-offs. Because it is this ambition that we must brandish from now on, now that twenty days have passed.
A goal light years away from that of SM Caen, its alter ego in French football. The Malherbistes lost their sixth match in a row, the fourth with their new Portuguese coach, Bruno Baltazar. Another room, another atmosphere. While the Caennais, gathered in the center of the field, were whistled, some of their supporters even returning to the pitch to jeer at them, the Guingampais went to celebrate their success with their supporters. Happy and fulfilled.
Technical sheet
Arbitrator : Mr. Bouille
Spectators : 14 744.
-BUT. Guingamp : Labeau (44’).
WARNINGS. Caen : Lecoeuche (75') ; Guingamp : Guendouz (45'+ 3), Touzghar (83').
CAEN : Mandréa – Sy, Moussounda, Traoré, Lecoeuche – Lebreton (Rajot, 81'), Gaucho – Brahimi, Le Bihan (Gomis, 68'), Najim (Kyeremech, 73') – A. Mendy (cap.). Coach: Bruno Baltazar.
Not entered: Clementia (g.), Bolumbu, Thomas, M'Vila.
GUINGAMP : Basilio – Riou, Gomis, Nair, Ourega – Guendouz (Mendès, 56'), Louiserre (cap.), Sidibé, Picard – Luvambo (Touzghar, 73'), Labeau (Godame, 88').
Not entered into play: Niasse (l.), Demouchy, Maronnier, Lemonnier.
