Saint-Étienne through to Ligue 1 promotion playoff after dramatic shootout win

AS Saint-Étienne secured a dramatic victory against Rodez AF in a nerve-wracking shootout, earning the right to face the 16th-placed Ligue 1 team in next week’s promotion playoff. The match ended 0-0 after regulation time, with the Verts prevailing 7-6 on penalties at the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium.

One year after their relegation, the Stéphanois have reclaimed their chance to return to the top flight. Brice Maubleu, who made four saves in the shootout, became the hero of the evening by stepping up to the challenge and guiding his team through.

A masterstroke from Philippe Montanier

Philippe Montanier’s tactical decision to replace Gautier Larsonneur with penalty specialist Brice Maubleu proved decisive. While Maubleu missed his own attempt, he went on to make four crucial saves, including stopping Rodez’s final penalty to secure the dramatic win. « It was incredible. I had the chance to win the match myself, but I missed. Then I knew I had to stand tall, and Mika Nadé finished the job, » Maubleu reflected after the game.

Rodez’s unbeaten streak halted

Rodez AF arrived in Saint-Étienne on the back of a 21-match unbeaten run, but their hopes of a playoff spot were shattered in a tightly contested match. The Verts struggled to impose their authority early on, with Wilitty Younoussa’s powerful effort hitting the crossbar. The visitors squandered a golden opportunity in the 81st minute, leaving the Chaudron fans roaring in relief after the final whistle.

Reliving past glories

Saint-Étienne’s victory evoked memories of their 2024 playoff triumph over Metz, when they secured promotion with a 2-1 aggregate win. Though their immediate return to Ligue 1 ended in relegation the following season, the club now has a second chance to reclaim their place among France’s elite.

The identity of their playoff opponent will be confirmed after the 34th matchday of Ligue 1, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at Geoffroy-Guichard. The winner will face the 16th-placed Ligue 1 team in a winner-takes-all battle for a coveted spot in next season’s top flight.

The road ahead

The Verts have shown resilience and character in overcoming Rodez in such dramatic fashion. With the playoff now looming, the pressure is on, but the atmosphere at the Chaudron promises to be electric as Saint-Étienne bids to return to where they belong.