Marseille and Toulouse Knocked Out in French Cup Upsets

Paris (AFP) – Marseille and defending champions Toulouse were left stunned as they crashed out of the French Cup in nail-biting penalty shoot-outs during the last 32 matches on Sunday.

In Marseille’s match against Rennes, captain Samuel Gigot became his team’s fall guy as he missed a crucial penalty kick, allowing Rennes to secure a 9-8 victory. Marseille had taken an early lead in the 29th minute through Jordan Veretout, who capitalized on a cross from Jonathan Clauss that slipped through the Rennes defense. Rennes had a chance to equalize just before half-time, but Benjamin Bourigeaud’s penalty was saved by Marseille goalkeeper Pau Lopez. However, Rennes managed to find the net in the 53rd minute through Martin Terrier, assisted by Bourigeaud.

In another surprising upset, Toulouse were eliminated by third-division Rouen. After a thrilling 3-3 draw, Rouen emerged victorious with a 12-11 penalty shootout win. Toulouse’s defender Gabriel Suazo hit the post with his penalty, while Abdeljalil Sahloune successfully converted for Rouen. Rouen, currently sixth in their division, took the lead in the 16th minute with a goal from Omar Bezzekhami, but Toulouse’s Vincent Sierro leveled the score just two minutes later. Toulouse then went ahead with a sensational volley by Yann Gboho in the 31st minute. However, Rouen equalized through a Valentin Sanson penalty just before half-time and took a 3-2 lead in the 64th minute with a header from Sofyane Bouzamoucha. Toulouse managed to force a penalty shoot-out in stoppage time thanks to a goal from Rasmus Nicolaisen.

These unexpected results in the French Cup have sent shockwaves through the football community, as both Marseille and Toulouse were considered strong contenders. The penalty shoot-outs provided intense drama, showcasing the unpredictable nature of cup competitions.

Fans and pundits alike are now eagerly anticipating the upcoming matches in the French Cup, as the competition heats up and underdogs continue to challenge established teams. The cup’s unpredictable nature makes it an exciting spectacle for football enthusiasts, with each match offering the potential for surprising outcomes.

While Marseille and Toulouse will undoubtedly be disappointed by their exits, they can take solace in the fact that they played their part in enthralling encounters that will be remembered for years to come. The French Cup continues to be a stage for underdogs to shine and big teams to fall, creating an atmosphere of excitement and unpredictability.