Paris FC promoted, Metz finish third, Red Star secure safety

Paris FC clinched promotion to Ligue 1 McDonald's on Friday night, despite being held to a 1–1 draw by Martigues. The point was enough to send the capital’s second club back into the French top tier for the first time since 1979 — a momentous achievement coming just seven months after the club’s takeover by the Arnault family and Red Bull.

It was far from a serene evening for Stéphane Gilli’s side, who had to endure late pressure from both Martigues and their promotion rivals Metz. Pierre-Yves Hamel put PFC ahead early in the second half (49'), but Martigues equalised through veteran Oualid Orinel (59’). As Paris clung on, attention shifted to Metz’s incredible late fightback — but it ultimately wasn’t enough to delay the inevitable. It will be the first time two Parisian clubs will be in the top division since the 1989-1990 season when Racing Club de France were relegated from the top tier.

Metz Resigned to third spot as Rodez spoil direct promotion hopes

At stade Saint-Symphorien, Metz staged a spirited comeback from 1–3 down to draw 3–3 with Rodez, but the point condemned them to a third-place finish and handed Paris FC promotion to Ligue 1 McDonald's . Despite two late goals from Cheikh Sabaly and Ablie Jallow, and a last-gasp chance for Gauthier Hein, the Grenats now face the playoffs to keep their Ligue 1 dream alive.

Metz’s defensive frailties were again exposed, with all three Rodez goals coming on the counter after missed chances. A spirited fightback couldn't mask what was ultimately a missed opportunity.

Clermont end winless streak to stay alive 

Clermont Foot ended a 14-match winless run by edging Annecy 3–2 at home, a result that lifted them into the relegation play-off spot to give Les Grenats a chance of staying in the division. Famara Diedhiou scored inside the first minute, with Bassouamina and Maïdine Douane also on target. But defensive lapses almost cost them again, with Annecy twice pulling back within a goal. Still, the win gives Clermont a fighting chance to remain in Ligue 2 BKT. They are now 16th on goal difference and will head to Rodez next week knowing a win could secure safety.

Red Star celebrate survival

Promoted last year from the National, Red Star secured their survival in Ligue 2 with a 1–1 draw away at bottom-side Caen. The result ensured the Audoniens could not be caught by Clermont and Martigues, and marks a successful first campaign back at this level.

Badji had opened the scoring with a header (31'), but Najim punished a Red Star error to equalise (72’). Still, the final whistle was met with jubilation from the travelling Red Star faithful, who will now look forward to a celebratory final matchday at Stade Bauer against Dunkerque.

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