Article by Romeo Ene – Published on Sunday, 03 May 2026, 13:58 / Updated on Sunday, 03 May 2026 13:58
Metz is the first team relegated from Ligue 1. Coached by Benoit Tavenot, they lost at home against Monaco, score 1-2, in the round of 32, and will take the road to the second division.
After a goalless first half, in which the hosts relied on defensive organization, the game became much more intense after the break.
Metz finished last in Ligue 1 and were relegated
Metz opened the scoring in the 49th minute through Jessy Deminguet, rekindling the fans' hopes. Reaction from guests came quickly. Folarin Balogun restored the tie in the 61st minute, after a period of dominance by the “Monegasques”.
The ending was dramatic. In the 90+1 minute, Ansu Fati scored the winning goal, after a decisive pass provided by Caio Henrique.
Following this setback, Metz are left with no mathematical chance of survival and will play next season in Ligue 2, while Monaco continue their race for the top positions in the table.
Metz lasted only one season on the first stage in France, after being promoted last year.
“Metz are officially relegated to Ligue 2 for the 12th time in their history, two more than any other team. It is also their eighth relegation in the 21st century in 13 seasons, more than any other team in Europe's big five leagues,” notes Opta.
I have had my regrets for some time, but we cannot rewrite history. It was a chain of events. I learned a lot along the way after I arrived, but I'm proud of the work done with the staff and the players, because they followed the instructions, despite the current limitations.
We can't redo the season, but there was a lot of readjustment to do, and in three months I think we gained the experience of five or six seasons. It was a very, very hectic time.
– Benoit TavenotMetz's coach, according to republicain-lorrain.fr
Sebastien Pocognoli's side are in 6th place, which secures qualification for the Conference League preliminaries, with 54 points.
Ligue 1 standings up to date
