In front of over 3,000 spectators, Étoile Lavalloise played their first quarter-final of the Futsal Champions League on Monday, February 23. The Mayennais faced Semey from Kazakhstan. The return match will take place on Friday, March 6 in Kazakhstan.
It was a historic moment in the Espace Mayenne arena in Laval on Monday, February 23. Étoile Lavalloise, the reigning triple French champions, played their very first Champions League quarter-final. A strong turnout of nearly 3,300 supporters cheered on the team, pushing them closer to the final stages of the European competition.
Initially timid but then ecstatic, Espace Mayenne vibrated with excitement as Étoile Lavalloise staged a magical comeback, winning 5-4 after being behind 4-1. The Mayennais will now have to secure their qualification in the return match in Semey, Kazakhstan, on Friday, March 6.
The match started frustratingly for Étoile Lavalloise but ended magnificently. Trailing quickly 2-0, the team pushed in the first half to equalize. Before the tenth minute of play, they narrowed the gap with a goal from Bilal Bakkali on a free kick. Despite missed opportunities, the visitors managed to regain a two-goal lead (1-3) eight minutes before halftime. Étoile Lavalloise struggled against the surgical attack of the Kazakhstan team.
After halftime, Lavallois pressed to reduce the gap but were punished with a goal against the run of play (1-4). Despite constant pressure from the visitors, they struggled to create chances and faced an excellent goalkeeper. The team finally found a breakthrough with a second goal from Bilal Bakkali and a late equalizer and winning goal in a thrilling finish (4-5).
For their first appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals, Étoile Lavalloise did their job at home, but they only completed part of the journey. With just one goal advantage, they will have to be solid in the return leg to secure their progression.
