Valenciennes Football Club marked its return to the Coupe de France quarter-finals after a hiatus of 12 years, courtesy of the stellar performance of its recent acquisition. In a remarkable debut, young Senegalese striker Siriné Doucouré notched the decisive goal that propelled his team to victory.
Having last graced the quarter-final stage in the Coupe de France in 2012, Valenciennes faced a formidable challenge against Saint-Priest in the round of 16 on Wednesday, February 7.
The encounter proved to be a demanding test for Valenciennes, mirroring the struggles faced by the team throughout the ongoing season in the French Ligue 2.
However, the fortunes of the red and white squad took a positive turn with the addition of their new player.
Siriné Doucouré, who joined Valenciennes on loan a mere week ago, etched his name in the club’s history by not only making his first appearance but also delivering a standout performance.
Introduced into the game at half-time, the 21-year-old center forward showcased his goal-scoring prowess by finding the net in the 80th minute. Doucouré’s decisive goal not only tilted the balance in favor of Valenciennes but also secured their passage to the coveted quarter-finals of the Coupe de France.
The Senegalese striker’s swift impact in the red and white colors heralds a promising beginning to his tenure with the club.
Valenciennes Football Club, under the leadership of Doucouré, looks forward to making further strides in the Coupe de France and continuing their resurgence in the tournament after a prolonged absence from the quarter-final stage.