Former Newcastle United & Liverpool Striker Makes Immediate Impression For Bordeaux

In a match that marked a historic moment for French football, Girondins de Bordeaux played out an exciting 2-2 draw against Châteaubriant in front of over 10,000 fans at the 42,000-seat Matmut Atlantique stadium.

This was the first time a fourth-division match had been held in such a large venue in France, though the crowd fell short of the division’s attendance record. Nevertheless, the electrifying atmosphere, boosted by Bordeaux’s passionate supporters, played a pivotal role in their late comeback.

“It’s an incredible feeling, whatever the level,” said former Liverpool and Newcastle United man Andy Carroll, who scored both of Bordeaux’s goals in the second half. His double helped the Girondins salvage a point in their sixth match of the National 2 season. For much of the game, it seemed the home side might suffer defeat, but Carroll’s brace ensured a dramatic finish, sending the Bordeaux fans home buzzing despite the draw.

Bordeaux, trailing 2-0 for much of the match, struggled in the first half. Winger Soufiane Bahassa reflected on their early difficulties: “We didn’t have the right to show that face in the first half. It wasn’t enough. After the first quarter of an hour, they were winning all the duels. But the spirit we showed in the second half is what we need to maintain throughout the season, and from the first minute.”

Coach Bruno Irles echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the team’s slow start but praising the fans’ unwavering support. “Even at 0-2, the supporters were positive,” he said, noting that the crowd’s energy helped spur the team’s late resurgence. Goalkeeper Lassana Diabaté also highlighted the impact of the fans: “We mostly lacked concentration early on, but at halftime, the coach refocused us. The crowd really pushed us to equalize. Without their support, maybe we wouldn’t have come back.”

The first half belonged to Châteaubriant, who capitalized on Bordeaux’s shaky start. The away side, unphased by the grand setting, took control early and went into the break with a 2-0 lead. For Châteaubriant’s players, facing a club with the stature of Bordeaux was a unique experience.

The second half, however, was a different story. Bordeaux came out with renewed energy, and their pressure eventually paid off. Andy Carroll, who has 248 Premier League appearances to his name, showed his experience and class. His first goal reignited the home fans, and his second brought the stadium to life. “After my second goal, I thought it was incredible to see everyone jumping, dancing, and singing. It was fantastic,” Carroll said. “It’s a great feeling for anyone, no matter what level you play at.”

Châteaubriant, despite their strong performance, were unable to hold on. A red card in the 79th minute for their player, sent off for an elbowing incident, further tilted the game in Bordeaux’s favour. Coach Pape Leye suggested that the atmosphere and Bordeaux’s status might have influenced the referee’s decision, though he remained proud of his team’s effort.

Site Opinion – Positive Momentum

The 2-2 draw may not have been the ideal result for Bordeaux, but it highlighted the team’s resilience and ability to fight back under pressure. The support from over 10,000 fans at the Matmut Atlantique demonstrated that the club still commands a loyal following, and that energy was critical in securing the comeback. Andy Carroll’s impact shows that even at this level, experience and leadership can make a significant difference.

Looking ahead, Bordeaux can take many positives from this performance. Despite their slow start, the second-half turnaround reflects a team with potential and grit. If they can carry this fighting spirit into the rest of the season and leverage the passionate fanbase at their iconic stadium, the Girondins are well-placed to challenge for promotion from National 2.