FC Chambly make history by reaching French Cup semi-finals — but suffer tragedy as founder dies moments later

FC CHAMBLY made history as they reached the semi-finals of the French Cup, but suffered tragedy as their founder passes away just minutes later.

The third tier side stunned Ligue 1 Strasbourg in their quarter-final meeting, and could set up a meeting with Paris Saint-Germain in the last four.

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But the joy turned to despair at the final whistle, when the players learnt that founder Walter Luzi, 77, died in hospital.

He founded the club in 1989, and his sons represent two pillars of FC Chambly. Fulvio is chairman, while Bruno is first team coach.

The Championnat National side won in dramatic circumstances as Lassana Doucroure hit the game’s only goal against Strasbourg.

Incredibly, they are not the only third tier side to make it to the last four of the French Cup.

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Les Herbiers beat Ligue 2 Lens on penalties in the quarter-finals in and it means a side from outside the top two divisions could make the final if they pair are drawn together.

PSG are the only other side assured of a place in the semi-finals, having beaten Marseille.

Caen and Lyon will be facing off for the final spot.

PSG have won the previous three editions.