Bordeaux Eyes French Cup Upset Against Seasoned Coupe de France Contenders
Relegated from the gleaming stadiums of Ligue 1 to the amateur ranks after bankruptcy last season, the Girondins de Bordeaux are battling for resurrection. While flourishing in National 2, currently occupying fourth place in Group B thanks to an impressive eight-game unbeaten streak, Bordeaux’s ambitions extend beyond this division. The Coupe de France, with its promise of exhilarating David-versus-Goliath encounters, beckons.
The prospect of facing another top-tier French club in the later rounds is a driving force. However, Sunday’s 8th-round clash against Les Herbiers presents a formidable obstacle. Harmony will be paramount at Stade Sainte-Germaine, as Bordeaux, lacking home support behind closed doors, will face a team accustomed to the Coupe de France spotlight.
Herbiers Emerge as Favorites
Jonathan d’Agostino, a WebGirondins columnist, believes that Les Herbiers, finalists in the 2018 edition, hold the advantage. ‘Les Herbiers are favorites in my opinion,’ he states, ‘because they are used to the Coupe de France and they are the first N2 level team that Bordeaux will face in this competition. They also achieved a feat in the previous round by eliminating Ligue 2 club AC Ajaccio.
They often use the sides in possession and like to get over the defense when they play straight. They extend play on the sides, and they always start the match well, often scoring in the first quarter of an hour, although less so since the absence of their injured striker Jérémy Billy.’
Girondins. “Les Herbiers are favorites in this 8th round of the Coupe de France” #Girondins 👇 https://t.co/ubmIPZ18bL
— WebGirondins (@webgirondins) November 28, 2024
D’Agostino acknowledges Herbiers’ recent away form as further evidence: ‘Three victories in the last four matches, eight goals scored, and only two conceded. They have been very effective on the road.’
The stage is set for a gripping encounter. Bordeaux, seeking a moment of magic, will need to overcome not only the formidable Herbiers but also the challenges of playing in front of empty stands. The stakes are high – for both teams – and a place in the Round of 32 hangs tantalizingly in the balance.
What are the key factors contributing to Bordeaux’s resilience despite their recent relegation?
## Bordeaux’s Cup Dream: Can They Overcome Les Herbiers?
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is football analyst, David Miller, to discuss a fascinating Coupe de France matchup this Sunday. Bordeaux, a recently relegated Ligue 1 powerhouse, are set to face off against cup specialists, Les Herbiers. David, can you tell us about the current state of both teams heading into this clash?
**David Miller:** Absolutely. Bordeaux, despite their relegation woes, are showing remarkable resilience.
They currently sit comfortably in fourth place in National 2 and are on an impressive unbeaten streak. They’re eager to prove themselves and view the Coupe de France as a steppingstone back to the big stage [[1](https://www.foxsports.com/soccer/french-coupe-de-france-bordeaux-vs-les-herbiers-dec-01-2024-game-boxscore-614378)].
Les Herbiers, on the other hand, are seasoned cup veterans, known for their knack of causing upsets. They are fully aware of Bordeaux’s ambition and will be looking to capitalize on any potential vulnerabilities.
**Host:** Bordeaux will be playing behind closed doors at Stade Sainte-Germaine. How much of a disadvantage do you think this will be for them?
**David Miller:** It’s definitely a blow. Bordeaux’s passionate fanbase would have undoubtedly generated a fantastic atmosphere and provided a significant boost. The lack of home support could potentially impact their morale, especially against a team like Les Herbiers who thrive in such environments.
**Host:** With Les Herbiers being the designated favorites, what does Bordeaux need to do to pull off the upset?
**David Miller:** Bordeaux needs to maintain their current form and composure. They have a young, hungry squad capable of brilliance. Limiting mistakes and capitalizing on any opportunities will be crucial.
They also need to utilize their tactical awareness effectively to nullify Les Herbiers’ strengths.
This is a true David-versus-Goliath encounter, and it promises to be a thrilling match.
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, David. This is certainly a must-watch game for any football fan.