Nantes are scheduled to host Lens for their Coupe de France quarter-final tie at the Stade de la Beaujoire on Wednesday March 1. Unfortunately for Les Canaris, the Cup holders will have to face Les Sang-et-Or behind closed doors due to sanctions by the French FA’s disciplinary committee for the abundant use of smoke bombs during last year’s final against Nice. The club were also handed a fine of €50,000. As Nantes travelled away to Lens yesterday, both clubs have been trying to find a solution, according to a report from RMC Sport.
The outlet reports that Nantes’ and Lens’ hierarchy have met with the French FA’s interim president Philippe Diallo and proposed to hold the tie on neutral ground, and with fans in the stands. Nantes and Lens have defended this common stance and even proposed that the proceeds of the match to be donated to charity. According to RMC Sport, this request, only nine days before the tie, has little chance of succeeding.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
