Reims, who had lost four straight games and were winless in twelve going into this match, pulled off another incredible coup in the Coupe de France, upsetting Angers SCO on penalties, just as they had done against rivals Monaco in the round before.

Their Japanese front line appeared to have more energy early on from their semi-final position, as Keito Nakamura put striking partner Junya Itō through on goal but was stopped by a last-minute challenge from Thilo Kehrer. Biereth, who scored seven goals in his first three games at Stade Louis II after joining from SK Sturm Graz in early January, has undoubtedly become a cult icon. It was evident that he was not to be discouraged after his glancing attempt had gone barely wide minutes before, as he finished on the volley after meeting Caio Henrique's cross from the right.