Toulouse got back to winning ways and found the net again with a 3-1 triumph over Strasbourg, putting an end to a two-weekend stretch without a goal. Three goals helped the hosts claim an important result, while Strasbourg was left with more questions following another underwhelming display.
The match at the Stadium de Toulouse started in a sluggish, foggy atmosphere, with neither team creating much danger during a cautious first half. However, the game opened up just before the break, and Toulouse ultimately took control after the interval.
Toulouse puts an end to scoring drought against Strasbourg
Toulouse had found it difficult to convert their performances into results this season, especially at home. Before this match, they had failed to score in three of their four games at the Stadium de Toulouse. Strasbourg, meanwhile, arrived hoping to build on a 5-1 victory over Auxerre that had ended a run of four consecutive defeats.
The opening exchanges were closely contested, with both teams battling for possession in midfield. Although there were some promising passing moves, the tempo was slow, and clear chances were limited. Fog settled over the pitch, further reducing visibility during an already subdued first half.
Toulouse came close to breaking the deadlock shortly before half-time when Santiago Hidalgo sent a powerful effort towards the bottom corner. Filip Jörgensen managed to push the shot away, but the Argentine made no mistake in stoppage time, finding the net with a strong finish after a scrappy passage of play.
The goal was checked by VAR amid questions over a possible handball by Hidalgo inside the area. After a lengthy review, the officials allowed the strike to stand, giving Toulouse the advantage going into the break.
Strasbourg’s struggles continue as Toulouse secures a 3-1 win
Toulouse doubled their lead in the 56th minute through a set-piece. Cristian Cásseres Jr. delivered a corner, and Mark McKenzie rose above the Strasbourg defence to head home unchallenged, putting the hosts in a commanding position.
Strasbourg had offered little attacking threat up to that point, but Giovanni Reyna gave the visitors a lifeline. The American deceived goalkeeper Guillaume Restes with his finish, sending him in the wrong direction before calmly slotting the ball into the net.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly ended when Toulouse restored their two-goal cushion. Another set-piece created the opportunity, with Thomas Jørgensen striking the ball on the bounce and beating Filip Jörgensen to make it 3-1.
Strasbourg were unable to raise their level during the closing stages and moved towards their sixth defeat of the season. With the international break approaching, pressure is likely to increase on head coach Hugo Oliveira, whose future could become a major talking point during the pause in domestic football.