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Nantes vs Toulouse match abandoned after pitch invasion and smoke bombs

Nantes vs Toulouse match abandoned after pitch invasion and smoke bombs

Nantes supporters in the Tribune Loire, 2019
Nantes supporters in the Tribune Loire, 2019

The Ligue 1 clash between Nantes and Toulouse at Stade de la Beaujoire was abandoned just 20 minutes into the game after smoke bombs were thrown onto the pitch and fans invaded the field.

The match, part of the 34th and final matchday of the Ligue 1 season, was halted after supporters from the Tribune Loire section launched smoke bombs onto the pitch and some individuals stormed the field. The incident occurred shortly after the display of protest banners by the same group.

Referee Stéphanie Frappart immediately ordered both teams to retreat to the locker rooms. While the players complied, 74-year-old coach Vahid Halilhodzic, in his final match before retirement, remained on the sidelines to confront the disruptors. His attempt to engage with the supporters was halted by stewards as tensions escalated. Earlier in the match, he had been the sole figure welcomed by the Brigade Loire ultras, who had emotionally honored him with a tribute just minutes before the chaos erupted.

Players from Nantes were even seen urging their families to leave the stadium. After nearly ten minutes of clashes, riot police attempted to enter the Tribune Loire section but were repelled by masked leaders in violent exchanges. Seats were ripped out and thrown at CRS officers as the rest of the stadium watched in shock.

Coach Halilhodzic returned to the touchline after the disturbances, offering to speak with the supporters. “It’s too dangerous; they’re fighting each other,” he was warned. “What are they going to do?” he replied, visibly distressed by the unfolding events.

A crisis cell involving Ligue de Football Professionnel officials and public authorities has been set up to determine the match’s outcome. As of 21:45, the game had not resumed, with reports suggesting the match may be abandoned entirely.