French football has once again delivered an incredible story. Fourth-division club "Stade Briochin" (N2) caused a sensation by eliminating the renowned "Nice" (L1) from the French Cup with a 2-1 victory. This win not only added a new chapter to the team's history but also marked a significant moment in the career of Armenian midfielder Artur Zakharyan, who played a key role in this success.
The 27-year-old Armenian footballer inspired his team to a last-minute winning goal. Reminiscent of Henrikh Mkhitaryan's legendary runs, Zakharyan sprinted across the field and unleashed a powerful shot on goal. Nice's goalkeeper managed to parry the strike, but "Stade Briochin" defender Hugo Bouden was the first to react and completed a brace (88', 90+7'), securing a historic victory.
For "Stade Briochin," this is their first-ever appearance in the French Cup quarterfinals. Zakharyan will also be playing at this high level for the first time, marking a true triumph for a player who was competing in the fifth division just two seasons ago. However, he has since established himself as a key figure in the squad. Furthermore, "Stade Briochin" is fighting for promotion to the third division, and this success could serve as a catalyst for further growth.
"Stade Briochin" will continue their cup run alongside another Breton club, "Guingamp" (L2), who also pulled off a shock by eliminating "Toulouse" (L1) with a 2-0 victory. Joining them in the next round are "Angers," "Cannes," "Dunkerque," and tournament favorites "Paris Saint-Germain."