Girondins edged out of the cup after a brave performance against Rennes

Kicking off 2023 with the traditional Coupe de France clash, Bordeaux were narrowly beaten at home by L1 Rennes (1-2). Josh Maja (45+2) cancelled out Bourigeaud's opener (23') just before the break, but Doku restored the visitors' advantage (54') and Malcom Bokele's red card left the Girondins with a mountain to climb (60').   And yet, the Girondins had started so brightly! Putting on an admirable display of team work and unflinching commitment, the boys knew they would have to be at the very best to beat a team currently sitting fourth in Ligue 1. The first goalscoring opportunities fell to Josh Maja (8') and Jacques Ekomie (10'), but it was Bourigeaud who found the net for Rennes after a sweeping attacking movement (23', 0-1).

Far from being discouraged, Bordeaux were more determined than ever to score. Josh Maja finally found an opening, just before the referee blew up for half time (45+2, 1-1).   The Girondins' hopes were short-lived, with Doku restoring Rennes' lead in the 54th minute (1-2). It could soon have been 2-2 were it not for a superb save from Rafal Straczek (58'), and minutes later things took a dramatic turn when Malcom Bokele was shown a straight red. Down to 10 men with half an hour still to play, the Girondins dug deep and continued to teste Rennes. Poussin put in one more massive save to keep us in the game (82'), but ultimately it was not to be. Bordeaux crash out of the Coupe de France, but with their heads held high.