Rodez shocks Red Star in wild Ligue 2 playoff clash

A thrilling Ligue 2 playoff match at the Bauer stadium saw Rodez AF overturn a two-goal deficit to defeat Red Star 3-2, securing a place in the next round with a dramatic late winner. The victory keeps Rodez unbeaten in the league since November and sets up an electrifying showdown with AS Saint-Étienne at Geoffroy-Guichard.

a match packed with drama and goals

The Red Star started brightly at Bauer, with Kevin Cabral opening the scoring in the 15th minute after a precise header from Damien Durand’s cross. However, Rodez quickly responded through Ibrahima Baldé, who equalized just before half-time. The second half saw an explosion of goals, beginning with Josué Escartin restoring the Red Star’s lead. Rodez fought back with a stunning volley from Mathis Magnin and then took the lead for the first time through Wilitty Younoussa’s late strike.

The rollercoaster match also featured a red card for Red Star’s Giovanni Haag in stoppage time, adding to the chaos. Rodez’s win keeps them unbeaten in Ligue 2 since November, a remarkable streak that sets up their next playoff challenge against AS Saint-Étienne.

key moments from the match

• 15’: Cabral puts Red Star ahead with a header.
• 29’: Baldé equalizes for Rodez with a physical finish.
• 61’: Escartin puts the hosts back in front.
• 67’: Magnin’s spectacular volley levels the scores.
• 69’: Younoussa’s late winner seals Rodez’s dramatic victory.
• 90+5’: Haag is sent off for a second booking.

rodez’s unbeaten run continues

Rodez AF entered the match on an impressive 18-game unbeaten streak in Ligue 2, a run that has them poised for promotion. Their resilience and attacking flair were on full display against a spirited Red Star side. The victory ensures they remain in contention for a place in Ligue 1, with a high-stakes clash against AS Saint-Étienne awaiting.

next steps for both teams

Rodez AF: Secured their spot in the next round with a thrilling comeback. Their next challenge is AS Saint-Étienne at the iconic Geoffroy-Guichard stadium, where another electric atmosphere awaits.

Red Star: Despite a valiant effort, the Parisian club will now regroup after a heartbreaking loss. Their focus shifts to rebuilding for the next stage of the competition.

Red Star FC lineup (5-3-2):

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

Rodez AF lineup (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. Coach: Didier Santini.