AJ Auxerre 1–2 US Orléans
26 July 2026 | International Club Friendly

US Orléans kicked off their 2026 pre-season preparations with a hard-fought 2–1 victory away at AJ Auxerre. The match, played behind closed doors at the Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps, saw the visitors take an early lead before Auxerre levelled just before the hour mark. Orléans re-took the lead midway through the second half and held on to secure a morale-boosting result against their Ligue 2 neighbours.

Match Overview

The friendly served as an important fitness test for both sides ahead of the new campaign. Auxerre, playing in front of their home supporters, were hoping to build momentum after a solid finish to last season. However, it was Orléans who looked sharper in the opening exchanges. A well-worked move down the right flank led to the opening goal in the 22nd minute, with striker Kévin Testud slotting home from close range.

Key Moments

• 22' – Goal US Orléans: Testud converts a low cross from Adrian Dabasse to make it 0‑1.
• 58' – Goal AJ Auxerre: Lassine Sinayoko pounces on a loose ball inside the box to equalise.
• 73' – Goal US Orléans: A looping header from centre‑back Thomas Fontaine restores the visitors' lead.

Tactical Story

Auxerre dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down a disciplined Orléans defence. The introduction of substitute Gauthier Hein injected more creativity into the home midfield, leading to the equaliser. Orléans responded by dropping into a compact 4‑4‑2, hitting on the counter and eventually winning a set‑piece that proved decisive.

Standout Players

Orléans goalkeeper Léonard Aggoune made three important saves, including a point‑blank stop from Jubal in the 67th minute. For Auxerre, Sinayoko looked lively up front and took his goal well, but the defence lacked coordination on the decisive corner.

What It Means

US Orléans will take confidence from a strong defensive display and clinical finishing. Auxerre head coach Christophe Pélissier will be concerned by the ease with which his side conceded from a dead ball. Both teams have one more pre-season friendly before the start of the Ligue 2 campaign.