Le Mans were on the verge of celebrating their promotion to Ligue 1 on Saturday evening when their joy turned to frustration. A stoppage-time goal by Milan Robin in the 90th+1 minute had given them a 2-0 lead over Bastia, seemingly sealing their return to the top flight. But as the Sarthois players began to revel, chaos erupted from the stands.
Bastia supporters launched firecrackers and smoke bombs onto the pitch from the opposite end of the Stade Armand-Cesari. The projectiles rained down near the field, forcing the match to come to an abrupt halt. What was meant to be a moment of triumph quickly descended into an uncertain standoff.
Referee Rudy Buquet was left with a difficult decision. Although Le Mans players wanted the game to end immediately, Buquet refused to call the match off on the spot. Citing concerns for the physical safety of everyone on the pitch, he ordered both teams to retreat to the locker rooms. The stadium began to empty as spectators were evacuated from the premises.
The players initially lingered on the field before eventually heading down the tunnel. Buquet himself retreated into the delegate's office, where he remained for a prolonged period without communicating his final ruling. The outcome of the match—whether the result stands, the game is replayed, or another penalty is applied—remains unresolved.
The incident has cast a shadow over Le Mans' achievement. While they had mathematically secured promotion with the goal, the official confirmation now hangs in the balance pending the referee's decision. Bastia, who also had much at stake, now face potential disciplinary consequences for their supporters' actions.
As of now, the football world awaits Buquet's verdict, which will determine whether Le Mans can formally celebrate their return to Ligue 1 or if further complications arise. The match, which promised a night of glory, ended in uncertainty and disappointment.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.
