In a thrilling Ligue 2 playoff clash at the iconic Bauer stadium, Rodez pulled off a stunning comeback against the Red Star, securing a 3-2 victory that propels them toward Ligue 1. The match, filled with drama, goals, and unexpected twists, saw Rodez overturn a two-goal deficit to claim a crucial win in their quest for promotion.

a rollercoaster of emotions at saint-ouen

The Red Star started strong, taking an early lead through Kevin Cabral in the 15th minute, who headed home a cross from Damien Durand. However, Rodez quickly equalized when Ibrahima Baldé capitalized on a physical play by Tairyk Arconte. The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams creating chances but neither able to sustain dominance. By halftime, the scoreboard read 1-1, setting the stage for an explosive second half.

The second half saw Rodez take control, with Josué Escartin restoring the lead for the Red Star in the 61st minute. But the momentum shifted dramatically in the final ten minutes of regulation. Rodez leveled the score through Mathis Magnin’s stunning volley in the 67th minute, and then Wilitty Younoussa scored the go-ahead goal just two minutes later. The Red Star pushed hard for an equalizer, but Rodez held firm, and Giovanni Haag’s late red card added to the Red Star’s misery.

rodez’s unbeaten league run continues

The victory extends Rodez’s unbeaten streak in Ligue 2 to over six months, a testament to their resilience and consistency. Despite missing clear chances to break the game open, Rodez’s composure in the final stages paid off. The team’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Quentin Braat, held strong under pressure, while their attacking trio of Baldé, Magnin, and Younoussa proved decisive.

The Red Star, though disappointed, showed character by pushing for a late equalizer. Their passionate fanbase, which filled the stadium, created an electric atmosphere, but Rodez’s tactical discipline and clutch performances ultimately decided the outcome. The expulsion of Haag in stoppage time only added to the Red Star’s heartbreak as they watched their playoff hopes slip away.

next stop: saint-étienne’s chaudron

With this win, Rodez advances to the next round of the Ligue 2 playoffs, where they will face Saint-Étienne’s fervent supporters at the legendary Geoffroy-Guichard stadium. The clash promises to be another high-stakes encounter, with Rodez aiming to secure a spot in Ligue 1. The road to promotion is far from over, but Rodez’s performance against the Red Star has demonstrated their ambition and determination.

Red Star (5-3-2): Poussin – Sylla (Magnin, 75’), Durivaux, Escartin, Huard (Haag, 62’), Durand – Danger, Pierret, Hachem (Ba, 75’) – Cabral (Khaoui, 75’), Ikanga (Benali, 62’). Head Coach: Grégory Poirier.

Rodez (3-5-2): Braat – Galves, Laurent, Magnin, Lipinski, Jean-Lambert (Ponti, 66’) – Mendes (Benchamma, 90’+2), Trouillet (Saka, 86’), Joly (Younoussa, 66’) – Baldé (Nagera, 86’), Arconte. Head Coach: Didier Santini.