ascent playoff awaits Saint-Étienne after dramatic penalty shootout win

One year after their relegation, Saint-Étienne have seized a golden opportunity to return to the top flight. The Verts defeated Rodez in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout (0-0, 7-6), with goalkeeper Brice Maubleu making four crucial saves to secure their place in the Ligue 1 promotion playoff.

a season-defining triumph for the lionhearts

Saint-Étienne put an end to a five-match winless streak in penalty shootouts, a drought that stretched back a decade. The victory not only ended Rodez‘s impressive 21-game unbeaten run but also set the stage for a high-stakes playoff against the 16th-placed Ligue 1 side.

The match itself was a tight affair, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. Rodez nearly broke the deadlock late in the game, but Wilitty Younoussa‘s strike rattled the post, denying the visitors a breakthrough. The home side, despite dominating possession, found Quentin Braat in inspired form, thwarting several promising attacks.

Maubleu’s heroics seal the deal

Coach Philippe Montanier made a bold tactical decision by replacing Gautier Larsonneur with penalty specialist Brice Maubleu ahead of the shootout. Though Maubleu missed his own attempt, his heroics between the posts were instrumental in securing the win. “It was incredible—I had the chance to win the match, I missed, but I had to step up and deliver,” he reflected post-match.

The victory echoes a similar triumph in 2024, when Saint-Étienne overcame Metz in a playoff to return to Ligue 1 (2-1, 2-2 a.p.), though they were relegated the following season. This time, the Verts have the chance to reclaim their place among France’s elite once more.

The identity of their playoff opponent will be determined at the end of the 34th Ligue 1 matchday, setting the stage for a dramatic finale to the season.