Algerian defender Sohaib Naïr’s return reinforces En Avant Guingamp in hard-fought cup victory

Sohaib Naïr marked his long-awaited comeback by helping En Avant Guingamp secure a 2–1 win over Locminé in the seventh round of the Coupe de France, capping his first competitive appearance since July with a composed and influential performance.

The Algerian defender, whose absence had disrupted Guingamp’s defensive stability for months, was restored to the starting line-up in Brittany’s challenging trip to Locminé.

Manager Pierre-Yves Ripoll had signalled confidence in the 23-year-old ahead of the tie, noting that Naïr was clearly vying for a place in the starting eleven, and his selection reflected the faith rebuilt between player and coach.

From the outset, Naïr brought structure and clarity to a back line still weakened by a persistent injury list.

Confident in the tackle and assured in his distribution, he offered a level of control Guingamp had sorely missed during his absence.

Yet despite his steadying influence, the visitors endured a difficult opening.

A foul inside the box handed Locminé a penalty in the sixth minute, leaving EAG immediately on the back foot.

The response, however, was marked by resilience rather than panic.

Gradually taking hold of the match, Guingamp levelled through Hatchi before Ahilé completed the turnaround, finishing a move shaped by a sharp feint from Amine Hemia.

The 2–1 scoreline ensured Guingamp’s passage to the Round of 64, though the contest was far harder than the club might have hoped for against National 2 opposition.

As much as the result mattered, Naïr’s return was the defining note of the evening.

His leadership and timing in defence offered a renewed sense of balance to a team still carrying at least six injuries across the squad, forcing Ripoll into frequent adjustments and providing opportunities for younger or less-experienced players.

The performance underlined just how valuable Naïr’s presence can be in navigating this turbulent period.

For Guingamp, the win provides momentum, but Naïr’s reintegration may prove even more significant in the weeks ahead.

🎙️ Un homme heureux et qualifié : Sohaib Naïr évoque son retour de blessure après #SCLEAG

📺 Le débrief : https://t.co/eSrSZ0xYVO pic.twitter.com/s4yb833yV9

— À La Guingampaise (@ALaGuingampaise) November 15, 2025

His calm authority, technical assurance and natural reading of the game give EAG a stabilising figure as they prepare for the challenges to come.

After months spent recovering, he has returned not only to compete—but to anchor his team when they need him most.

Tags: Sohaib Naïr, En Avant Guingamp, Coupe de France, Locminé, Pierre-Yves Ripoll, Algeria, French Football, EAG, Injury Return, Round of 64