The magic of the Coupe de France is officially back. Following a thrilling opening round, the draw for the second round took place on Monday evening in Châteaulin, setting up 58 highly anticipated matches across the Finistère department.
With four distinct regional pots established, local clubs now know exactly what stands between them and the next stage of France’s most prestigious cup competition.
The Headliners: Fiery Local Derbies
The draw has delivered several high-stakes matches that are bound to draw massive local crowds.
In the southern district, the absolute standout fixture takes place at the Stade du Moros. Hermine Concarneau (R3) will host US Trégunc (R2) in a highly anticipated neighborhood derby.
Other key clashes in the South include:
- Coray (R3) vs. Carhaix (R3): A balanced and physical R3 showdown at Poullen.
- US Saint-Evarzec (R3) vs. AS Plobannalec-Lesconil (R3): Saint-Evarzec, known for upsetting Pont l’Abbé last season, faces another tough test against Bigouden opposition.
- Elliant (D1) vs. Penmarc’h (R3): A potential trap game for the visiting R3 side.
Meanwhile, the northern district features its own heavyweight matchups, including Lannilis (R3) taking on AS Brestoise (R2), and Plouguerneau (R3) facing off against Etoile Saint-Laurent (R2).
David vs. Goliath: Underdogs to Watch
The beauty of the Coupe de France lies in its "petit poucet" (underdog) success stories. Several lower-tier teams are looking to keep their dream alive.
The absolute sensation of the first round, JS Saint-Thonan (D3)—who pulled off a stunning 2-1 upset against Gouesnou (D1)—will host ES Locmaria Plouzané (D2).
Similarly, Vaillante Saint-Frégant (D3) faces a mountain to climb as they host Plougourvest (R3). In the South, the remaining D3 representatives, Leuhan and Poullaouen, have drawn difficult matches against R3 opponents FC Pen Hir and Châteaulin FC, respectively.
Key Dates and What's Next
Most regional powerhouses in the R2 tier received relatively favorable draws, with clubs like FC Pont l'Abbé, Quimper Ergué-Armel FC, and ES Névez facing D2 opponents.
However, Quimper Kerfeunteun FC (R3) will have to wait a little longer to find out their destination. They are scheduled to travel to face the winner of the delayed first-round matchup between AS Poullan/Mer (D2) and Lapins de Guengat (D2), which takes place this Friday night.
All second-round matches are scheduled to be played over the weekend of August 29 and 30.
