What was meant to be a routine season finale turned into a nightmare for FC Nantes, who had already been relegated to Ligue 2. The match was halted in the 22nd minute after supporters from the Tribune Loire section displayed displeased banners and launched smoke bombs onto the pitch. The deployment of around 100 riot police officers failed to prevent the incidents, as the officers were positioned on the wrong side of the stadium.

Vahid Halilhodzic, the 74-year-old coach leading what would be his final match before retirement, remained on the pitch facing the disruptive fans. Some of whom had invaded the playing surface. Visibly upset and deeply saddened by the unfolding events, he was restrained by stewards. Earlier in the match, he had been the sole figure acknowledged by the Brigade Loire ultras group, who had emotionally saluted him with a tribute just minutes before the disturbances.

Nantes players were seen urging their families to leave the stadium. After approximately ten minutes of clashes, riot police attempted to enter the Tribune Loire section but were repelled by masked leaders in violent confrontations. Seats were torn from the stands and thrown at the CRS officers while the rest of the crowd watched in shock.

The referee, Stéphanie Frappart, quickly ordered both teams to retreat to the locker rooms. Coach Halilhodzic, determined to confront the situation, returned to the pitch edge after the initial chaos subsided. When advised against approaching the fans, he questioned, “What are they going to do?” despite warnings that it was too dangerous as supporters were engaged in violent altercations.

A crisis meeting was convened involving Ligue 1 officials and public authorities to determine the match’s fate. As of 21:45 local time, the game had not resumed, with indications pointing toward an abandonment of the match.