Brest Shines in Europe but Struggles in France
Stade Brestois 29 has emerged as a surprise contender in the UEFA Champions League, achieving remarkable success despite a modest budget. However, their domestic performance in Ligue 1 tells a different story, with the team facing challenges and hovering near the relegation zone.
In the current season of the UEFA Champions League and Ligue 1, aside from Paris Saint-Germain attracting attention, the French team Stade Brestois 29 has established itself as a surprise package.
With one of the smallest budgets in Ligue 1, Brest has achieved significant success in their debut European campaign under the new 36-team format of the Champions League. Despite numerous injuries, they have a strong chance of finishing the league stage among the top eight teams.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain, France's premier football club, sits in 25th place and faces the possibility of an early exit from the competition.
Despite securing a Champions League spot last season, Brest has struggled domestically this term. Under coach Éric Roy, they have recorded 5 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses in 15 matches, placing them 11th with 17 points—just four points above the relegation zone.
It's evident that Brest has focused its efforts on the Champions League to enhance its reputation among football enthusiasts. Their impressive European performances invite comparisons with Paris Saint-Germain, especially considering Brest's budget of €48 million this season, a fraction of PSG's €860 million.
Due to their home ground, Stade Francis-Le Blé, not meeting UEFA standards, Brest has been hosting their Champions League home games at Stade du Roudourou, located 114 kilometers away, adding to their unique situation.
Advancing further in the Champions League, even finishing among the top 24 teams, would be a remarkable achievement for Brest. Few would have expected this French club to compete so effectively against some of the world's leading football teams.