TOPS
Despite discomfort felt this week in training, Olivier Dall’Oglio chose to start Irvin Cardona. A choice that paid off since the 26-year-old scored the first goal of the play-off against Rodez (2-0) at a time when his team was showing ineffectiveness. On a strong cross from Chambost, the left winger of the Greens placed his head, leaving no chance for Jaouen (64th) – until then impassable. The number 11 of Saint-Étienne scored his ninth goal of the season, certainly the most important. His replacement, Mkubu freed his team by doubling the lead (90 6).
The Cauldron was boiling. Worthy of the big Ligue 1 posters. The more than 35,000 Greens supporters ensured the atmosphere in the stands to become one with its players. The twelfth man was there and will have to be again next Thursday for the reception of Metz in the promotion play-off for the next Ligue 1 season. A first division that the Greens have not experienced since the season 2021-2022. Note that Messins beat ASSE twice last year in Ligue 2.
FLOPS
Certainly blunted after its victory on Tuesday against Paris FC, the Ruthenois did not shake Saint-Étienne this Friday. After a first half, chilly and with their backs to the wall – 10 shots suffered – the Rodez team did not manage to do better after returning from the locker room. In the last quarter of an hour, Santini’s men struggled physically and were no longer able to make defensive efforts. Offensively, the results are hardly more glorious – one small shot on target out of eight attempts. 15th budget in Ligue 2, Rodez nevertheless managed a season beyond the expectations of the club’s management.
Author of Rodez’s first strike (10th), the Beninese striker did not show his advantage in this meeting. Lonely in front, he had nothing to eat. Worse still, he had to give up his place shortly after the start of the second half after feeling pain. It was limping that Ruthenian number 17 came out (56th). His replacement Arconte brought nothing on the attacking front.