The rhythm at the Groupama Stadium was broken just as Lyon appeared firmly in control against Rennes. Ernest Nuamah had struck twice in the Ligue 1 meeting, but the fifth-round match was halted in the 36th minute after an offensive banner and chants aimed at Saint-Étienne came from the Bad Gones’ North Stand.
Match stopped after warnings
- Before kick-off, supporters displayed a banner carrying an insulting message in Spanish directed at Saint-Étienne, Lyon’s historic rival.
- The banner remained visible during the opening phase of the match despite an initial announcement from the stadium speaker.
- A second warning followed, but chants insulting Saint-Étienne continued around the ground.
- After being alerted by the match delegate, referee Mathieu Vernice stopped play in the 36th minute and sent both teams back towards the dressing rooms.
Lyon figures step in
Rennes’ players went straight inside, while Lyon’s squad initially remained on the pitch. Head coach Paulo Fonseca and captain Corentin Tolisso approached the section to speak with supporters and help calm the situation.
Lyon officials Matthieu Louis-Jean and Michael Gerlinger also went close to the stand as the club sought to establish what had happened. The banner was swiftly removed.
Play resumes after 15-minute pause
- Lyon’s players made a brief return to the dressing room after the discussions in the North Stand.
- Both sides then came back out for a short warm-up period.
- The match restarted after an interruption of around 15 minutes, resuming from the point at which it had been stopped.
The incident interrupted a strong opening from Lyon, whose early advantage had been built on Nuamah’s double against Rennes.
