Le Mans FC confirmed its form by beating Angers 3-2 in a pre‑season match on July 28 2026, witnessed by new president Pedro Oliveira. The win adds to a streak that already includes victories over Versailles (3-1) and Nantes (1-0).
How did the match unfold?
The game, split into four thirty‑minute periods, saw Louis Mafouta open the scoring at the 5th minute with a header from Lucas Buades, then double the lead at the 44th minute after a pass from Dame Gueye. Angers responded at the 71st minute through Amine El Ouazzani, before Milan Robin netted the decisive goal at the 90th minute, finding the top corner in front of 2,000 fans at Stade André‑Conty. A final Angers goal by Jacques Ekomié at the 119th minute closed the match without altering the final score.
Why does this win matter for Le Mans FC?
Beyond morale, the result fits into a campaign where the club has already conceded 31 goals while scoring 50, giving a +19 goal difference. Le Mans FC finished the 2025 season in 2nd place in Ligue 2 with 62 points (16 wins, 14 draws, 4 losses) and remains five points behind leader ESTAC Troyes. This pre‑season performance shows the team can compete with Ligue 1 sides, a key factor for the promotion race.
What are the next challenges?
The club’s next fixture is on August 4 against the UNFP, while Angers travels to Lorient the same day. Le Mans FC will aim to solidify its attacking play, especially through Mafouta, already decisive four times this summer, and maintain defensive solidity that limited opponent goals. Pedro Oliveira’s presence in the presidential box may also shape strategic decisions as the new season approaches.
How does this affect the title race?
With a five‑point gap to ESTAC Troyes, every friendly win can boost confidence before the official league kickoff. The club targets staying among the leaders, leveraging its effective attack (50 goals) and relatively stable defense (31 goals conceded). The upcoming UNFP match will be a crucial test to gauge progress before the 2026‑27 season starts.
