Saint-Étienne secured a dramatic promotion spot in a thrilling penalty shootout against Rodez, setting up a high-stakes playoff against the 16th-placed Ligue 1 side. The match ended 0-0 after regulation and extra time, with the Verts prevailing 7-6 from the spot, thanks to a heroic performance by goalkeeper Brice Maubleu.
After a year in Ligue 2, the Stéphanois finally got the chance to fight their way back to the top flight. Maubleu, who came on as a tactical replacement for Gautier Larsonneur, made four crucial saves during the shootout—despite missing his own attempt. His heroics kept the dream alive for Saint-Étienne, who now face an uncertain but formidable opponent in the Ligue 1 relegation battle.
a tactical masterstroke and a golden chance
Philippe Montanier’s bold decision to replace Larsonneur with Maubleu before the shootout paid off spectacularly. Larsonneur’s own penalty miss set the tone, but Maubleu rose to the occasion, turning the tide with a string of breathtaking saves. Reflecting on the rollercoaster night, he admitted, “I had the chance to win the match with my penalty, but I missed. Then, I had to step up and stop theirs—and Mika Nadé finished the job.”
The victory was all the more satisfying given Rodez’s recent form. Just three days earlier, the RAF had defeated Red Star—then fourth in Ligue 2—3-2, showcasing their own resilience. However, Saint-Étienne’s defensive resilience and Maubleu’s clutch performances proved decisive.
geoffroy-guichard erupts as history repeats itself
The match at Geoffroy-Guichard was tense, with both teams creating moments but failing to break the deadlock. Wilitty Younoussa’s late strike rattled the crossbar, while Rodez squandered a golden chance in stoppage time. But it was in the shootout where the drama peaked. Saint-Étienne, who last won a penalty shootout a decade ago, silenced the critics with a resounding 7-6 victory, echoing their 2024 triumph over Metz that sealed their Ligue 1 return.
Their opponent in the playoff will be determined after the 34th round of Ligue 1, but one thing is certain: Saint-Étienne will enter the clash with the weight of the Chaudron behind them, ready to fight for their place in the elite.
