Paris FC Dig Deep in Brest to Secure a Defining Win

Paris FC continued their upward trajectory in Ligue 1 with a hard-fought 2–1 away win over Stade Brestois on Sunday, a result that not only adds three points to the tally but sends a clear message: the capital club is no longer just making up the numbers. Forty-six years since their last stint in the top flight, Paris FC are back, and they mean business.

This was no routine away win. Brest, desperate to kickstart their season after a poor run of form, came out with intent. Despite missing several key players, they pressed high from the first whistle, looking to unsettle Paris and force errors in possession. Ludovic Ajorque, the focal point of Brest’s attack, was dominant in the air and caused problems throughout the first half, especially in transition. Paris, however, weathered the early storm and struck with precision.

In the 15th minute, Williams Geubbels, starting up front, capitalised on a defensive lapse and slotted home his first goal in Ligue 1 for the club. It was a composed finish and a timely one, giving Paris the confidence to settle into their shape and dictate the tempo. The goal shifted momentum, and just under twenty minutes later, Marchetti doubled the lead with a well-taken strike from the edge of the box. Two goals in the opening half-hour, both from players opening their Ligue 1 accounts, and Paris FC were in control.

The first half closed with Paris ahead 2–0, but not without warning signs. A few defensive lapses gave Brest clear sights of goal, and it was only the sharp reflexes of Nkambadio in goal that kept the scoreline intact. His positioning and decision-making were spot on, and he would go on to play a decisive role later in the match.

After the break, Brest came out with renewed urgency. Their pressing intensified, and Paris began to show signs of fatigue. In the 52nd minute, a defensive error led to a penalty, which Romain Del Castillo converted with confidence. The goal gave Brest a lifeline and turned the atmosphere at Francis-Le Blé electric. From that point on, the hosts pushed hard for an equaliser.

Paris, to their credit, didn’t panic. They remained compact, absorbed pressure, and looked to hit on the counter. Kebbal had a golden opportunity to restore the two-goal cushion when he broke through one-on-one, but his effort was saved. Still, his movement and energy kept Brest’s backline honest.

The turning point came in the 84th minute. Ajorque, bearing down on goal, was cynically brought down by Otavio Ataïde, who was shown a straight red. Down to ten men, Paris were forced to dig in and defend deep for the final minutes. Brest threw everything forward, launching long balls and flooding the box, but Nkambadio stood firm. His saves in added time were nothing short of heroic, denying Brest on multiple occasions and preserving the lead.

The final whistle was met with relief and pride. Paris FC had not only secured three points but had done so in a manner that reflects their growing identity: organised, committed, and capable of managing difficult moments.

Statistically, the performance was solid: 54% possession, 83% pass accuracy, and seven shots, four of which were on target. But beyond the numbers, this was a match that showed character. After 46 years away from the top flight, Paris FC are writing a new chapter, one built on substance, not sentiment.

There are still areas to address. The defence, while improved, remains vulnerable under sustained pressure. The penalty conceded was avoidable, and the red card will leave Ataïde suspended for the next fixture against Strasbourg. The return of Hamari Traoré could bring much-needed stability, and the winter window may be used to reinforce the back line.

For now, though, Paris FC sit 10th in the table and head into the next match with momentum and belief. The win in Brest wasn’t just about points—it was about proving they belong. And if they continue to show this level of commitment and tactical awareness, they’ll do more than just stay up. They’ll establish themselves.

Next up: Strasbourg at Jean-Bouin. Another test, another chance to build.