As in May 2024, RAF plays their second “playoff” match against the Greens, this Friday, May 15th (8:30 pm). But this time, they arrive with great confidence and face an ASSE team not in the best shape.
The time is for aftermath. So Saint-Étienne and Rodez have decided to meet again this Friday at 8:30 pm for the episode II of a suspenseful film, the Ligue 2 playoffs they started two years ago. The reward remains the same: the winner of this duel at Geoffroy-Guichard will face the 16th Ligue 1 team in a double confrontation to dream of promotion to the elite.
Although the poster of this second division blockbuster remains the same between the Greens, the 2nd best team at home, and the Ruthénois, the 2nd best away team, the Aveyron challenger has sharpened its weapons since May 2024 (defeated 2-0). They come with an enhanced confidence from a streak of 21 matches without a loss, the latest being a stunning victory (3-2) against Red Star during the playoff 1. It seems like they might have what it takes to defeat the Chaudron and its 42,000 spectators.
Recovery and Superstition:
“We are capable of beating anyone, the players have proven that. The 21 matches (undefeated) are not random. It gives us confidence and even in tough times, we know we can come back,” said Didier Santini, the coach of RAF two years ago. “Two years ago, we showed a very, very good image. I think we can show an even better one.”
The sporting challenge is immense, and so is the recovery challenge, only 72 hours after the match in Saint-Ouen, while Saint-Étienne had six days to prepare. Santini did not let go of his players to prevent them from wasting their energy. He even changed their habits and the hotel. “When you lose at a place, you have to change. We have superstitious people among us,” he joked.
The Greens not at their best – like two years ago:
In Saint-Étienne, the mood is not exactly gleeful. Despite the returns of goalkeeper Larsonneur and defender Pedro, as well as the presence of the best Ligue 2 player, Zuriko Davitashvili, ASSE is under pressure due to numerous absences (Tardieu, El Jamali, Jaber, Eymard, Lamba, Traoré, and Boakye).
Moreover, although the start of Philippe Montanier’s era was ideal with 9 matches undefeated since his appointment in early February, things have slowed down. With only one victory, against relegated Amiens (5-0) in the “regular season” finale, after two defeats against champion Troyes (0-3) and against Rodez (2-1) fifteen days ago, the recent dynamic does not inspire euphoria.
But in the Forez, they remember that two years ago, the last three matches did not end in victory either. Before facing Rodez and then making it through the playoffs against Metz (2-1, 2-2). It is up to RAF to change the outcome for a royal continuation.
(Context: RAF = Rodez Aveyron Football, ASSE = Association Sportive de Saint-Étienne, Forez = region in France where Saint-Étienne is located, Ligue 2 = second division of professional football in France, Ligue 1 = top division of professional football in France, playoffs = special matches to determine promotion or relegation)
