It seems Reims fans now have a new hero in Hafiz Ibrahim. The 19-year-old Nigerian winger delivered a masterclass, scoring his first goal for the club and providing an assist to seal a thrilling 2-1 victory over Cannes.
With this win, Reims secured a spot in the Coupe de France final, where they will face defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, Footballrover reports.
But how did the drama unfold at Stade Pierre de Coubertin?
Hafiz Ibrahim strikes early to ignite Reims’ dream
Reims wasted no time asserting their dominance, and it was none other than Hafiz Ibrahim who set the ball rolling.
Just 14 minutes in, the Nigerian winger capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire home the opening goal.
His clinical finish sent the Reims supporters into excitement as they sensed something special was on the horizon.
However, Cannes, a spirited fourth-tier side, refused to bow out without a fight.
Their veteran midfielder, 39-year-old Cheikh N’Doye, found the net in the 52nd minute, levelling the score and sending a wave of tension through the stadium.
Ibrahim’s assist seals the deal for Reims
With Cannes growing in confidence, Reims needed a response—and Hafiz Ibrahim delivered yet again.
Just minutes after conceding, the teenager turned provider, setting up Malta midfielder Teddy Teuma for the winning goal.
His vision and precision ensured Reims reclaimed their lead, and despite making substitutions in the 70th minute—including Ibrahim’s exit for Oumar Diakité—Reims held firm to secure the victory.
The win means Reims will now battle PSG in the Coupe de France final on May 24.
While PSG remains the overwhelming favourite, Reims can draw confidence from their last Ligue 1 meeting in January, where they held the Parisians to a 1-1 draw.
Can they shock the giants and lift the trophy for the first time since 1950? Time will tell.
Be the first to comment on "Hafiz Ibrahim stars with first goal and assist as Reims edge Cannes to reach Coupe de France final"