Stade Français-Pau: Paris hasn’t said its last word, Isa unleashed, Pau’s indiscipline

The Stade Français secured a dramatic 34-32 victory over Section Paloise in Pau on Saturday, April 25, 2026, thanks to a last-minute penalty by fly-half Louis Carbonel after the final whistle.

The match, played at Stade du Hameau in Pau, saw the home team reduced to 13 men for nearly ten minutes in the first half due to yellow cards for flanker Auradou and center Montoya, yet they still led 18-10 at halftime.

Despite Pau’s early dominance and disciplinary issues, Stade Français fought back in the second half, with Carbonel’s conversion and a late penalty securing the win.

Carbonel, who has been instrumental for Stade Français this season, kicked the winning penalty from 15 meters out, straight in front of the posts, sealing a crucial victory in the Top 14 race for playoff spots.

The victory keeps Stade Français in contention for a direct semifinal berth, moving them within two points of Pau in the standings.

Pau, despite missing key players like captain Beka Gorgadze (shoulder injury) and winger Théo Attissogbe due to injuries, showed resilience but were hampered by indiscipline and injuries throughout the match.

Stade Français, under coach Paul Gustard, capitalized on Pau’s mistakes, though they failed to fully exploit their numerical advantage early on, conceding six points while playing with extra men.

The match was closely watched by France national team selector Fabien Galthié, who was in attendance at Stade du Hameau.

This hard-fought win demonstrates Stade Français’ resilience and keeps their playoff hopes alive as the Top 14 season progresses toward its climax.

Stade Français will gaze to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures as they aim to secure a top-two finish for direct semifinal qualification.

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