Laval edge Guingamp in Dinard friendly despite opponents' thin squad

Laval took part this Friday in Dinard to a closed-door friendly against Guingamp and Red Star. Laval edged Guingamp 1-0 in the second half of the programme, after a 0-0 draw with Red Star in the opener.

What did we learn from this outing?

With just 16 outfield players available, Guingamp fielded a severely depleted side against Laval and Red Star. Manager Sylvain Ripoll was forced to manage numerous absences, including Amadou Samoura (thigh) and Akim Abdallah (hip), as well as players still in rehab like Darly Nlandu and Gautier Ott. The staff adjusted training sessions to protect fitness, moving the slot to 9am to avoid the peak heat.

For Laval, the headline act was Francis Coquelin’s return to the club that shaped him. The 35-year-old midfielder, arriving from FC Nantes, drew praise for his experience and technical quality. David Vignes, Laval’s coach, used the game to test options despite the thin opposition.

Why this match matters for Laval

This friendly was part of Laval’s 2026-27 pre-season build-up as they aim to steady themselves in Ligue 2 after a tough campaign. Last season they finished 16th with 32 points from 34 games, 35 points behind leaders ESTAC Troyes. The record was tight: six wins, 14 draws and 14 losses, with an unconvincing attack (30 goals scored, 48 conceded, -18 goal difference).

Laval’s next official test comes soon: an away trip to Annecy on 19 February 2027, when Annecy sat 7th in the table. A key match in the survival scrap.

What’s next? The schedule tightens

After the Dinard outing, Laval line up another friendly on 17 July against Stade Rennais, again in Dinard but this time in front of fans. A chance to fine-tune tactics ahead of the league restart.

Guingamp, meanwhile, press on despite the absences. The side that finished last season in the relegation playoff zone are hunting for momentum. Their first competitive fixture looms large after a difficult campaign.

Laval are banking on new arrivals like Coquelin to shore up the midfield. A tall order, but vital if they’re to start the new season with confidence.