Auxerre close preseason with prestige win over Werder Bremen

Auxerre rounds off its preseason in style. On Saturday, Will Still's side defeated Werder Bremen (1-0) in their final summer friendly, according to L'Équipe. The goal came from Arthur Piedfort in the 50th minute, finishing a cross from Naouirou Ahamada.

The French outfit proved solid throughout. In the first half they created several dangerous openings with Ahamada (4' and 22'), while in the second they handled Bremen's comeback attempts well. The Germans had a good headed chance through Karim Coulibaly (74'), but Mamadou Diop, the new keeper arrived from Grenoble, made an excellent save. Auxerre also benefited from the woodwork in the 59th minute.

One concern at the end

The only shadow over this positive result is Assane Dioussé's withdrawal with an apparent knee problem in the closing stages (90+1), something to monitor carefully.

Auxerre begin Ligue 1 next Saturday at Lens at 17:15, kicking off the season with real momentum.