Local Club Dreams Big Ahead of Historic Cup Tie

SAINT-AVOLD, FRANCE – The FC Freyming, a regional football club from the Grand Est region of France, is preparing for the biggest match in its history: a Coupe de France round of 32 clash against US Chantilly this Saturday. The David-versus-Goliath encounter will see the R2 (fifth-tier) side take on their National 2 (fourth-tier) opponents at the Stade du Centre in Saint-Avold, with the game broadcast live on beIN SPORTS 1 as part of a multiplex broadcast at 3:30 PM local time.

The excitement surrounding the match was palpable on Wednesday when the club received a kit donation from Intermarché, a local supermarket chain, at their Sarreguemines store. The gesture, presented by Intermarché employee Nicolas Gay alongside club president Senol Tasoluk and general secretary Mustafa Babacan, was more than just a sponsorship; it was a symbol of community support for a team on the cusp of something special.

“It’s a real celebration, with a lot of enthusiasm surrounding this event,” said Tasoluk. “I want to thank Intermarché for everything they have provided. It’s something exceptional, almost a childhood dream. Thank you also to the representatives of the Federation, the League of Grand Est and the District Mosellan for their presence and support. We are now looking forward to Saturday to fully experience this event on the edge of the pitch.”

The Coupe de France, a competition steeped in French footballing tradition, offers amateur clubs like FC Freyming the chance to test themselves against professional opposition. This year’s edition has been particularly captivating, showcasing the passion and dedication found at all levels of the game. The French Football Federation (FFF) estimates that over 7,000 clubs participate in the early rounds of the Coupe de France each year, making it one of the most inclusive football tournaments in the world.

FC Freyming’s journey to the round of 32 has been nothing short of remarkable. They’ve overcome six opponents, including victories against US Valmont (5-0), Sportive Lorquinoise (0-5), US Farébersviller (2-1), US Nousseviller (0-3), SR Saint-Dié Kellermann (2-0), and a penalty shootout win against US Wittenheim (2-2, 3-2 on penalties) and Racing Besançon (1-0). This is the first time in the club’s history they’ve reached this stage of the competition.

Yann Leroy, President of the Grand Est Football League, highlighted the significance of the club’s achievement. “We are particularly proud that a club from Grand Est, FC Freyming, has gone so far in the competition. It’s a beautiful moment of celebration, especially approaching Christmas. Customers of Intermarché can discover the competition trophy, take photos, and the club benefits from great exposure before preparing for Saturday’s match.”

The atmosphere at the Intermarché store was festive, with the Coupe de France trophy on display for fans to admire and photo opportunities available. Supporters were also given scarves and flags to show their support for the team.

FC Freyming’s Road to the Round of 32

• 2nd Round: FC Freyming – US Valmont (R3) 5-0
• 3rd Round: Sportive Lorquinoise (D1) – FC Freyming 0-5
• 4th Round: FC Freyming – US Farébersviller (R3) 2-1
• 5th Round: US Nousseviller (R2) – FC Freyming 0-3
• 6th Round: FC Freyming – SR Saint-Dié Kellermann (R1) 2-0
• 7th Round: US Wittenheim (R2) – FC Freyming 2-2, 3-2 on penalties
• 8th Round: FC Freyming – Racing Besançon (N3) 1-0

Saturday’s match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with FC Freyming hoping to continue their fairytale run and potentially cause a major upset. For the small club and its dedicated fanbase, it’s a moment to savor and a testament to the power of local football.

Full TV Schedule for the Round of 32