Bakambu Returns as Sochaux Host Toulouse in Relegation Battle
Sochaux have been handed a significant boost ahead of their crucial Ligue 1 clash with Toulouse on Saturday, as striker Cédric Bakambu returns from suspension for Matchday 33.
The forward, who has served a two-match ban, is back in contention for Hervé Renard’s side and is expected to partner Jordan Ayew in attack. With Sochaux desperately battling to avoid relegation, Bakambu’s return comes at a pivotal moment.
Renard, the former Zambia national coach, will be counting on every available asset in the final push to stay afloat in France’s top flight. Despite sitting seven points adrift of safety, the team from Doubs remains determined not to go down without a fight.
Sochaux’s recent home form provides a glimmer of hope. Les Lionceaux are unbeaten in their last five outings at Stade Bonal and will aim to extend that streak against a Toulouse side currently sitting comfortably in mid-table.
“Having Cédric back is a real plus for us,” said Renard ahead of the match. “We know the road ahead is difficult, but we still believe in survival. At Bonal, we’ve shown fight — and that must continue.”
The return of Bakambu will not only strengthen Sochaux’s attack but also ease some of the pressure on Ayew, who has carried much of the scoring burden in recent weeks. The team’s resilience, especially at home, has been encouraging, but with just six games remaining, wins are now essential rather than admirable.
Sochaux Squad to Face Toulouse:
Goalkeepers: Pelé, Pouplin
Defenders: Faussurier, Carlão, Zouma, Marange, Corchia, Sunzu
Midfielders: Prcic, Ilaimaharitra, Sinkala, Boukari, Roudet, Contout, Guerbert
Forwards: Mayuka, Ayew, Bakambu
The match at Stade Bonal kicks off on Saturday evening. With the stakes high and pressure mounting, Sochaux know that anything less than three points could edge them closer to the drop — but with Bakambu back in the fold, belief remains.
