The first Ligue 1 McDonald’s multiplex of 2026 shook up the lower half of the table, as Brest and Le Havre returned to winning ways while Lorient were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw at home by Metz.
Brest cruised to a 2–0 victory over Auxerre, Le Havre edged Angers 2–1, and Lorient had to settle for a point against the struggling visitors.
Brest back on track against Auxerre
At the Stade Francis-Le Blé, Brest claimed a confident 2–0 win over Auxerre, lifting Éric Roy’s side to 11th in the standings and further from the relegation zone.
The breakthrough came just after the half-hour mark when Ludovic Ajorque finally rediscovered his scoring touch, finishing smartly after excellent work down the right.
Later, Ajorque turned provider, setting up Joris Chotard to volley home a late second and seal the win.
Brest controlled the match throughout, managing the game efficiently and limiting Auxerre’s attacking threat. Ajorque’s return to form could prove vital as the season enters its second half.
Le Havre breathe new life
At the Stade Océane, Le Havre ended a lengthy winless run with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Angers.
Young midfielder Quetant opened the scoring with a stunning strike into the top corner. Angers responded after the break through Mouton, but Le Havre demonstrated composure and maturity, with Obougou netting the decisive goal ten minutes from time.
The result lifts Le Havre to 13th, giving them some breathing room above the relegation zone and restoring confidence in their youthful squad.
Lorient held by Metz
Lorient were left frustrated at the Stade du Moustoir, as bottom-placed Metz snatched a 1–1 draw despite sustained pressure. Metz struck first through Sané, capitalizing on a corner, before Lorient equalized in the second half thanks to Bamba’s clever assist for Dieng.
Lorient pushed for a winner, hitting the woodwork and forcing key saves, but Metz defended resolutely to earn a valuable point.
The draw keeps Lorient in 12th but stops them from fully distancing themselves from relegation danger.
Tight battle at the bottom
With Brest and Le Havre both collecting three points, the fight to avoid the drop is intensifying.
Lorient’s draw helps maintain momentum, but the relegation scrap looks set to remain fiercely competitive as Ligue 1 moves into 2026.
