They did it ! And in what way, once again! The U19s of FC Nantes went for a historical qualification for the semi-finals of the Youth League, the Youth Champions League after their new victory on penalties, this time against the Danes of FC Copenhagen (3-3 at the end of regulation time, 5-4 in shots on goal).
Et what a stunning scenario (once again) in this part. These U19s like to scare their supporters, to scare themselves too, but with them, in the end, it is always FC Nantes who wins. After leading 1-0 from the start of the match thanks to a marvelous half-volley from Dehmaine Tabibou, the Canaries were surprised with a penalty a quarter of an hour into the game before sinking just before half-time on two Danish cons. 1-3 at the break.
The adventure could have ended there. This was without counting on the determination of the Nantais, who took advantage of an expulsion from the Danish side in the first period to get back into the game. Thanks to two goals from Exaucée Mafoumbi then from Louis Leroux, the U19s finally snatched a draw and won 5-4 in the penalty shootout against a packed Loire stand. Simply legendary.
A new attendance record
As against Helsinki and against Seville, the meeting against the Danes of Copenhagen took place at La Beaujoire. And the public once again responded. And in numbers! 19,301 spectators were present in the aisles of the stadium, which constitutes a new attendance record in France for a Youth League match. This is the fourth attendance in the history of the competition.
The great adventure therefore continues for the U19s of FC Nantes, who have one series of exploits. Now for the Final Four of the Youth League, which will take place April 19 and 22 in Nyon, on the UEFA grounds in Switzerland. Nantes will face the Greeks of Olympiakos in the semi-final. And there is no doubt that many Nantes supporters will be there to once again follow the exploits of the team coached by Stéphane Moreau.