Strasbourg Edge Reims with Late Penalties to Secure Historic Coupe de France Semi-final Spot

Key Takeaways:

• Strasbourg sealed a 2-1 victory over Reims to reach their first Coupe de France semi-final since 2000/01
• Two late penalties converted by Joaquín Panichelli and Julio Enciso swung the tie in Strasbourg’s favour after sustained pressure
• Reims, last year’s finalists, saw their run of seven consecutive clean sheets in all competitions come to an end

Match Overview

Strasbourg made the most of two late penalty opportunities to overcome Stade de Reims 2-1 and progress into the Coupe de France semi-finals for the first time since their triumph in the 2000/01 season. Gary O’Neil’s side exerted early control over possession, setting the tempo throughout the first half against Ligue 2 side Reims, who reached the final only last season and are targeting promotion.

Despite their dominance, Strasbourg struggled to unlock the disciplined Reims defence, with goalkeeper Alexandre Olliero continually frustrating the hosts. Olliero produced a sharp save from Sebastian Nanasi’s close-range header and diverted Guéla Doué’s low drive onto the post, ensuring the teams went into half-time level.

INTO THE COUPE DE FRANCE SEMI-FINALS 🤩 #RCSASDR | #CDF pic.twitter.com/xDBOjcFo4j

— Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace English (@RCSA_English) March 3, 2026

Defensive Resilience Tested

Reims entered the second half seeking to preserve a remarkable record of seven consecutive clean sheets in all competitions, comprising three wins and four draws. However, Strasbourg maintained their pressure and again came close as Doué was denied by the woodwork for a second time beyond the hour mark.

Although Strasbourg continued to press, it was Reims who nearly broke the deadlock during a rare counterattack, with Hiroki Sekine’s shot destined for the bottom corner before Mike Penders produced a vital fingertip save.

Late Drama from the Spot

As the match neared its conclusion, Strasbourg’s persistence was rewarded when they were awarded two quick-fire penalties. Joaquín Panichelli calmly dispatched the first from the spot after John Patrick handled the ball, and substitute Julio Enciso converted just three minutes later to double the advantage, leaving Reims with a mountain to climb. Patrick Zabi managed to pull one back for Reims in the dying moments, but it was not enough to prevent Strasbourg from advancing.

Thanks to this late surge, Strasbourg have now stretched their unbeaten run to 13 from their last 15 matches, maintaining momentum as they eye silverware.

Match Statistics