Full Breakdown
OGC Nice Advances to Coupe de France Final with Victory Over Strasbourg
4/23/2026, 9:50:13 PM
Match Overview
OGC Nice secured a place in the Coupe de France final after defeating RC Strasbourg 2-0 in the semi-finals held at the Stade de la Meinau. Elye Wahi emerged as the standout player, scoring both goals for Nice, which will face RC Lens in the final on May 22. This victory marks a significant achievement for Nice, who last won the Coupe de France in 1997 and finished as runners-up in 2022.
Key Match Events
The match began with a tense first half, where both teams struggled to convert opportunities into goals. Notable chances included a close effort from Nice's Elye Wahi that struck the post and a missed opportunity from Strasbourg's Martial Godo, who failed to capitalize on a clear chance. The deadlock was broken shortly after halftime when Wahi scored the opening goal in the 51st minute, finishing a well-timed pass from Jonathan Clauss.
Strasbourg attempted to respond aggressively, but their efforts were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and strong goalkeeping from Nice's Maxime Dupé, who made several crucial saves. The match's outcome was sealed when Wahi converted a penalty in the 82nd minute after Mohamed Ali-Cho was fouled by Strasbourg's Ismaël Doukouré.
Team Performance
Nice's defensive strategy proved effective, as they maintained a compact formation that limited Strasbourg's scoring opportunities. The team displayed resilience and tactical discipline, which was crucial given their struggles in Ligue 1, where they are currently facing relegation threats. The victory in the Coupe de France provides a potential avenue for redemption in an otherwise challenging season.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the match, Nice's coach Claude Puel praised his team's performance, highlighting their unity and determination. He noted that the victory was a testament to their hard work throughout the season. Elye Wahi, reflecting on his performance, expressed his joy at contributing to the team's success and emphasized the importance of the upcoming final.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, Strasbourg's coach Gary O’Neill expressed disappointment with his team's inability to convert chances, indicating that their performance did not meet expectations. The team, which had recently enjoyed success in the UEFA Conference League, will now shift focus to their upcoming semi-final against Rayo Vallecano, hoping to salvage their season.
What's Next
With the Coupe de France final against RC Lens on the horizon, OGC Nice aims to end a 29-year trophy drought. However, they must also navigate the challenges of Ligue 1, where they remain only four points above the relegation playoff zone. The upcoming match against Olympique de Marseille on April 26 will be critical in their fight for survival in the league.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This loss won’t define our season," he told French media afterwards.” — Andrew Omobamidele, Defender, Strasbourg
- “We need to try our best to take positives out of it.” — Andrew Omobamidele, Defender, Strasbourg
This victory not only boosts Nice's morale but also sets the stage for a thrilling final, where they will seek to reclaim their status as a competitive force in French football.
