Montpellier saw their hopes of promotion play-offs to Ligue 1 vanish this Saturday evening, following a bitter 1-2 home defeat against Clermont Foot 63. This match, part of the 33rd and penultimate round of Ligue 2, officially secured Clermont's maintenance in the league, while MHSC bid farewell to the prospect of returning to the top flight next season. The Mosson stadium, which was supposed to host a celebration, turned into a nightmare evening for the Pailladins.

The evening was marked by a series of unfortunate events for Zoumana Camara's men, even as the Butte Paillade, the club's ultras group, celebrated its 34th anniversary. After opening the scoring, Montpellier squandered their lead in the first half. The situation worsened in the second period with the expulsion of Khalil Fayad in the 51st minute, following a foul on Saïdou Saw. Despite being numerically disadvantaged, the Héraultais were awarded a generous penalty after a foul by Sow on Nicolas Pays, but Alexandre Mendy sent the ball directly into the stands, sealing the match's fate.

MHSC had, however, taken the lead in the 22nd minute thanks to Alexandre Mendy. From a precise cross by Enzo Tchato, the Montpellier forward headed the ball in at the penalty spot, scoring his 12th goal of the season. However, Clermont responded quickly. In the 26th minute, after a corner from Henri Saivet and a header from Famara Diedhiou hit the crossbar, Yoann Salmier equalized from close range.

Just before halftime, Montpellier was punished a second time. In the 45th+3 minute, Ibrahim Coulibaly executed a fine solo run on the right flank, eliminating Enzo Molebe and Nathanaël Mbuku before crossing for Adrien Hunou. The former Rennes player rose above the Montpellier defense to head in, giving Clermont Foot 63 the definitive lead.

The man of the match for Clermont was undoubtedly Ibrahim Coulibaly. The 20-year-old player was decisive in his team's second goal, thanks to his dribbling and work on the right side. Defensively, he also effectively contained Montpellier's attacks, demonstrating a complete and impactful performance.

This crucial victory officially validates Clermont Foot 63's maintenance in Ligue 2, moving them up to 13th place in the standings with 34 points. For Montpellier, however, this defeat definitively ends all hope of competing in the promotion play-offs, confirming that the club will not return to Ligue 1 next season.