Nineteen year old Nigerian forward Hafiz Ibrahim played a role in Stade Reims’ crucial 2-0 away victory over RC Lens on Friday night in Ligue 1. The win lifted the relegation threatened side temporarily out of the drop zone and back to 14th position on the log with 29 points from 29 games.
Ibrahim came on as a substitute at half time to make his sixth appearance in the French top flight. Though he didn’t score, his energy and movement contributed to a resilient second-half display by Reims.
Japanese winger Keito Nakamura was the hero of the night, scoring both goals in the 33rd and 88th minutes. The result was a much-needed response after Reims’ 1-0 loss to Strasbourg in their previous league outing.
Ibrahim has already made a mark this month, having scored in Reims’ 2-1 French Cup semi-final win over Cannes. That result secured a showdown against champions Paris Saint-Germain at the Stade de France on May 24.
Editorial
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When you’re fighting for your Ligue 1 life, every performance matters. Every point counts. And on Friday night, Stade Reims delivered a performance that was both gritty and timely. Against a Lens side with European aspirations, they didn’t just survive they thrived.
Let’s talk about Hafiz Ibrahim. At just 19, he’s already proving he belongs at this level. He didn’t find the net this time, but his influence goes beyond the score sheet. Coming on at half time in such a high pressure match speaks volumes about the trust the coaching staff have in him. That confidence is being repaid with performances full of energy, directness, and tactical awareness.
Keito Nakamura deserves the headlines, but the story here is also about Reims’ resilience. A week ago, they were licking their wounds after a painful loss. Today, they’ve clawed their way out of the drop zone and reignited belief in their survival hopes.
And don’t forget what lies ahead: a date with PSG in the French Cup final. It’s a chance for silverware, a shot at glory and for players like Ibrahim, an opportunity to shine on the biggest domestic stage in France.
We believe this Reims side has more to give. And if young guns like Hafiz Ibrahim continue to grow, staying in Ligue 1 may just be the beginning of something special.
Did You Know?
- Hafiz Ibrahim joined Reims from Nigeria’s Mavlon FC, a club known for producing youth talent.
- Reims last won the Coupe de France in 1958 and will play their first final in over 40 years.
- Stade Reims is one of the most historic clubs in French football, having played in two European Cup finals in the 1950s.
- Keito Nakamura has scored or assisted in five of his last seven appearances for Reims.
- Ibrahim’s goal against Cannes was his first in a senior competition since joining Reims.
