Reims recover to beat Ajaccio 3-1 in Ligue B

Reims earned a 3-1 home victory over Ajaccio in Ligue B on 18 October 2026, responding after dropping the third set to close the match with authority. The win gives Reims an important three points in the French second division and strengthens their position in the Ligue B standings.

Reims began the match with good energy and controlled much of the early play. Ajaccio stayed within range through determined defense and a few well-timed attacks, but the home side’s serving and blocking gave them the edge in the opening two sets. The third set provided a twist as Ajaccio raised its level and extended rallies, but Reims regained control in the fourth to seal the result.

Match overview

• Set 1: Reims 25-22 Ajaccio
• Set 2: Reims 25-19 Ajaccio
• Set 3: Reims 22-25 Ajaccio
• Set 4: Reims 25-21 Ajaccio

The first set was closely fought until the mid-point, when Reims found a run of points through strong serving. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Reims building a lead and keeping Ajaccio at arm’s length. Ajaccio responded well in the third, improving its reception and finding more success from the wings. That set gave the visitors hope, but Reims made the necessary adjustments and produced a composed fourth-set performance.

Key moments and tactical story

Reims’s attacking balance was key. Mathis Leroy provided a dependable scoring threat from the outside, while Hugo Perrin added important points in the middle and helped Reims control the net. The home setter kept the offense unpredictable, especially in the fourth set, when Reims needed to stop Ajaccio’s momentum. Ajaccio’s Julien Costa was among the visitors’ most effective performers, but his efforts were not enough to force a fifth set.

The tactical difference came at the service line and in transition. Reims served aggressively enough to disrupt Ajaccio’s first-tempo options, then used its block to funnel attacks into defensive positions. Ajaccio’s third-set comeback showed character, but Reims’s ability to reset after losing that set was the mark of a team with promotion ambitions.

Standings and season impact

This Ligue B result gives Reims a valuable home win and keeps the club in the promotion conversation. Ajaccio will take some encouragement from the third set but will rue the missed opportunities in the opening two sets. The head-to-head now favors Reims, and the three points could prove significant as the season progresses.

For fans following Ligue B results and standings, Reims’s 3-1 victory was a reminder of how quickly a match can shift in volleyball. The home side’s response in the fourth set was decisive and ensured that Ajaccio’s comeback attempt did not go any further.