Le Havre boosted their chances of Ligue 1 survival with a dramatic late comeback away to Auxerre, with Algerian left-back Yanis Zouaoui playing a key role off the bench.
Trailing 1-0 when Zouaoui entered the match in the 70th minute, Le Havre looked set to leave empty-handed until a late surge inspired by the 23-year-old defender turned the tide.
His precise corner delivery in the dying minutes forced an own goal from the opposition, setting the stage for a stunning 2-1 victory sealed in stoppage time (90+2’).
The win gives Le Havre a vital four-point cushion over the relegation zone with just two matches remaining in the season.
Although they still face difficult fixtures against Marseille and Strasbourg, both of whom are in contention for Champions League qualification, the club can now realistically hope to avoid the relegation play-offs and secure their place in France’s top flight for another season.
For Zouaoui, the match was another showcase of his quality, despite what has been an inconsistent and injury-disrupted campaign.
The Algerian full-back has struggled for regular playing time throughout the 2024–25 season, with a recurring calf issue limiting his ability to build momentum.
When fit, however, he has consistently delivered promising performances, balancing defensive duties with attacking intent from the left flank.
His introduction in Saturday’s fixture proved a turning point. With Auxerre already leading and seemingly cruising to a comfortable victory, Zouaoui injected urgency and creativity into Le Havre’s approach. His corner, delivered with pace and precision, unsettled the hosts’ defence and led to the equaliser, albeit via an own goal.
While he didn’t register an assist officially, the impact of his delivery was undeniable. It was the kind of contribution that goes beyond the stat sheet, a moment of quality at a critical juncture, lifting a side under pressure and steering the momentum back in their favour.
Le Havre’s coaching staff have previously praised Zouaoui for his attitude and technical ability, but his fitness issues have made it difficult for him to secure a consistent starting role.
The final two games of the season may now offer an opportunity for him to cement his place in the side, especially with the stakes so high.
The win over Auxerre carries added significance given the context. Auxerre, with little left to play for in the league, might have been underestimated by some, but they proved a tough opponent until Le Havre’s spirited response in the closing stages.
Now with 34 points, Le Havre sit four clear of AS Saint-Étienne, the first club in the drop zone, and will need to carry that momentum into their final encounters.
Caution, however, remains the watchword at the club. Marseille and Strasbourg are formidable opponents with European ambitions.
Le Havre will need discipline, character, and potentially more late magic from players like Zouaoui if they are to complete their mission of survival.
