Aubagne 1–2 Istres
International Club Friendly – 31 July 2026

Istres claimed a 2–1 victory over Aubagne in a pre-season friendly played at the Stade de Lattre-de-Tassigny. The match, part of both clubs’ preparations for the upcoming domestic season, saw Istres come from behind to secure a morale-boosting win.

Match Overview

The friendly began at a moderate pace, with both managers using the opportunity to give minutes to squad players and trialists. Aubagne took the lead in the 27th minute through a well-struck free kick from midfielder Sofiane Aït Saada, which curled over the wall and into the top corner. The goal was against the run of play, as Istres had controlled possession early on.

Istres responded well and equalised in the 39th minute. A corner was cleared only as far as defender Malik Touré, who volleyed home from the edge of the box. The second half saw several substitutions, breaking the rhythm of the game. Istres grabbed the winner in the 67th minute when substitute striker Mamadou Diallo latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the Aubagne goalkeeper. Aubagne pressed for an equaliser in the final 20 minutes but could not find a way through a resilient Istres defence.

Key Moments

• 27' – Goal (1–0): Aït Saada’s excellent free kick.
• 39' – Goal (1–1): Touré’s volley from a partially cleared corner.
• 67' – Goal (1–2): Diallo finishes a counter-attack.
• 82' – Woodwork: Aubagne’s substitute hit the post with a header.

Tactical Story

As a friendly, the tactical focus was on fitness and experimentation. Aubagne started with a 4-2-3-1 and tried to play through midfield, while Istres used a 4-4-2 with direct passes to the strikers. The intensity dropped in the second half as changes were made, but Istres showed better organisation in defence after taking the lead.

Standout Players

• Malik Touré (Istres): The centre-back’s equaliser was a highlight of his overall solid display.
• Mamadou Diallo (Istres): The substitute’s pace and finishing could earn him a place in the starting XI for the season opener.
• Sofiane Aït Saada (Aubagne): His set-piece quality was a bright spot for the hosts.

Season Impact

Both teams continue their pre-season schedules. Istres will take confidence from this comeback win into their final friendlies before the start of the Championnat National 2 season. Aubagne, competing in the same division, will look to tighten up defensively after conceding twice. The result has no bearing on league standings but serves as a useful barometer of each squad’s depth and readiness.