AS Saint-Etienne Struggles Ahead of Rodez Match
Defeated heavily by Troyes last Saturday (0-3), ASSE must bounce back against Rodez, but the news does not look optimistic.
AS Saint-Etienne is moving forward with doubt before their trip to Rodez. Beaten by Troyes in the Chaudron last Saturday (0-3), the Greens arrive weakened as they prepare to face one of the strongest teams in Ligue 2 at home.
Rodez, a Fortress that Scares ASSE
The trip ahead looks extremely complicated for ASSE. Firstly, because the Greens have had a very poor record at Paul-Lignon with only one point in their last two visits in 2023. But especially because RAF is currently impressive. Undefeated in 18 matches, Rodez has become a true machine this season.
At home, Didier Santini’s men are particularly formidable. Only Clermont and Pau have managed to win at Paul-Lignon this season, on the 19th and 26th of September. Very few teams can boast such solidity. In Ligue 2, only Troyes, Le Mans FC, and Grenoble have also limited damage at home with only two defeats. In other words, ASSE is entering one of the most challenging stadiums in the championship at the worst possible time.
Philippe Montanier Very Concerned After Troyes
Beyond the statistics, it is mainly the performance displayed by the Greens against Troyes that is causing great concern. After the heavy defeat in the Chaudron, Philippe Montanier did not hide his concern about the mental state of his group.
“When we are in difficulty, we can see that we lack leadership on the field. We quickly fade when things don’t go our way, we need to work on that,” noted the ASSE coach. These strong words reflect a real character problem within the team.
A Lack of Rhythm that Raises Questions
Another worrying point highlighted after the match is the intensity shown by ASSE. Robert Malm, speaking to beIN SPORTS, particularly pointed out the lack of dynamism and insufficient pace imposed by the Greens against Troyes. In big games, ASSE currently seems unable to meet the physical and mental challenge.
Philippe Montanier himself acknowledged: “We shouldn’t look for explanations elsewhere, our level wasn’t good enough. In top matches like this, we need to make fewer mistakes and perform at our best.” The observation is harsh.
An Essential Reaction for the Greens
With two matchdays remaining, ASSE no longer has the luxury to collapse. Another poor performance against Rodez could further complicate the Stéphanois’ ambitions and increase doubts around the group. But given Rodez’s current momentum and the mental struggles displayed by the Greens, the mission looks particularly perilous. ASSE faces a tough challenge this Saturday evening.
AS Saint-Etienne’s End-of-Season Schedule:
02/05: Rodez-ASSE (33rd matchday of Ligue 2)
09/05: ASSE-Amiens (34th matchday of Ligue 2)
12/05: Ligue 2 playoff (4th vs 5th)
15/05: Ligue 2 playoff (3rd vs winner of 4th-5th)
21/05: L1-L2 Promotion-relegation playoffs first leg
24/05: L1-L2 Promotion-relegation playoffs second leg
