Brest win Breton derby to end Lorient’s unbeaten run

Stade Brestois claimed local bragging rights with a 2-0 victory over FC Lorient at Stade Francis-Le Blé, ending the visitors’ 12-match unbeaten run and returning to winning ways in Ligue 1. Goals in the second half from Rémy Labeau Lascary and Ludovic Ajorque decided a hard-fought Breton derby after a balanced opening 45 minutes.

Tight first half, chances at both ends

The derby began at a lively tempo, with Lorient enjoying more of the ball but Brest carrying the greater threat in the final third. Rémy Labeau Lascary squandered a gilt-edged chance at the far post midway through the half, while Lorient went close through Pablo Pagis and Bamba Dieng.

Goalkeepers Grégoire Coudert and Yvon Mvogo were both called into action, Coudert producing an excellent save from Talbi’s long-range effort to keep Brest level at the break.

The hosts emerged with renewed intent after half-time and were rewarded five minutes into the second period. Kenny Lala’s dangerous delivery caused problems in the Lorient area, Mvogo could only parry the ball, and Labeau Lascary reacted quickest to finish emphatically on the rebound.

Ajorque seals the derby

Brest’s superiority was finally reflected on the scoreboard in the 77th minute. A well-worked move saw Eric Dina Ebimbe break into the box before cutting the ball back to Ajorque, who showed composure to turn and finish from close range, sparking celebrations around Francis-Le Blé.

Lorient thought they had pulled one back late on through Meïté, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on Coudert, ensuring Brest’s clean sheet remained intact.

Reactions

Brest head coach Eric Roy, celebrating his 200th match on the bench, praised his side’s control and resilience:
“It was a real derby, intense and committed. We stayed patient, defended well and were more effective in the second half. Ending Lorient’s run and getting back to winning ways makes it even more satisfying.”

Goal-scorer Labeau Lascary highlighted the collective effort: “We knew it would be tough. Once we scored, we felt more confident and managed the game well. Winning a derby at home is always special.”

For Lorient, the defeat marked the end of an impressive sequence. Captain Laurent Abergel admitted frustration: “We had the ball but lacked efficiency. Brest were more clinical and that made the difference.”