Malouda Laments Missed Chances and Lack of Control After Metz’s Cup Exit
FC Metz‘s dramatic 4-2 extra-time loss to Nantes in the Coupe de la Ligue Round of 16 has left a bitter taste, particularly for veteran midfielder Florent Malouda, who expressed deep frustration after the collapse.
Speaking to France 4 following the match, the 34-year-old was visibly disappointed with how Metz let a 2-0 lead slip before ultimately falling in extra time.
“It’s a lot of frustration,” said Malouda. “We had clear chances, we’re leading 2-0, and then we lose control. We can have a lot of regrets.”
Metz looked firmly in command at the hour mark but were undone by a spirited Nantes comeback, led by Serge Gakpé and Ismaël Bangoura, who turned the game around with late goals to send the match into extra time.
While acknowledging his side’s responsibility for the loss, Malouda also hinted at dissatisfaction with some of the officiating, though he refused to make it an excuse.
“When you’re not having success, the refereeing decisions aren’t in your favor. We’re not going to dwell on that. The referee has the right to make mistakes — we only have ourselves to blame.”
Despite his disappointment, Malouda’s measured tone reflects the voice of experience. The former Chelsea and France international urged his teammates to learn from the defeat as Metz look to refocus on their Ligue 1 campaign.
Metz’s early exit from the cup will sting, especially given how close they came to advancing. But for Malouda and his teammates, the lesson is clear: in knockout football, control and composure are everything.
