Angers fell to Cannes 77-79 in the Coupe de France on Tuesday evening, a match decided by the narrowest of margins. The hosts had looked comfortable for long stretches, but the visitors found their footing when it mattered most. It was a result that leaves Angers searching for answers after five games without a win in this competition.
Cannes came in with momentum, having won three of their last four outings. Their victory over Angers extends that run to four straight games. Angers, by contrast, have struggled to find consistency, losing more often than they have won this season. The difference in form was on display from the opening whistle.
The game was tight throughout, with neither side able to pull away for more than a few points. Angers led at halftime but could not hold on in the second half. The decisive moments came in the final ten minutes, where Cannes' defence tightened and their offence clicked into gear. By then, the visitors had seized control and held their nerve to see out the win.
Shooting percentages tell the story of a close contest. Angers shot 48 per cent from the field, while Cannes managed 51 per cent. The difference was marginal but crucial in a game decided by two points. Free throws also played a part, with both teams converting around 75 per cent of their attempts.
The result means Cannes move into the knockout stages of the tournament. Angers' campaign is over, and they will now turn their attention back to the league. The two sides meet again in the regular season next month, when the stakes are higher and the pressure will be even greater.
