At the dawn of a crucial promotion playoff against AS Saint-Étienne this Friday, Rodez AF midfielder Samy Benchamma opens up. With an impressive unbeaten streak of twenty-one matches, the player from Tarn reflects on Ruthénois’ exceptional season, successful integration within the group, and his deep attachment to his roots between Mazamet and Castres. An interview with a determined player looking to lead RAF to the summits of Ligue 1, before the legendary challenge at Geoffroy-Guichard.
In what state of mind are you after winning the first playoff?
“It’s magnificent. We are having a magnificent season. We are on a twenty-one match unbeaten run. The group has a strong bond now, and it’s all positive. We will go to Saint-Étienne to continue our dream. These are not bonus matches because we deserve to be here. These matches are close to our hearts, and we will give our all to reach the next round and then the relegation play-off against the 16th of Ligue 1.”
How do you feel about this season personally?
“Very well. I arrived in September, towards the end of the transfer window. There was already a team in place. I integrated very well, with very good guys. We have a young group that gets along very well. And I’m not far from my family, which is important to me. It helps me feel good off the field, and of course, it shows on the field too.”
Was there a sense of ambition coming to Rodez, without setting limits?
“Yes, definitely. When I arrived, I understood that it was a family club, where they don’t calculate. We take each match as it comes. We never thought about the next one. We focused on the moment. That’s what allowed us to play freely, without looking at the standings. In December, we were far from the playoffs. But we managed to string wins, not lose, grab draws. And that brings us to today.”
You will play at Geoffroy-Guichard. How do you approach this match?
“We know it’s a legendary stadium, with huge crowds. There are Saint-Étienne supporters everywhere, even in Rodez. But we go there without pressure. We know we perform well away. Since January, we have won many matches away from home. We will go there to bring something back. It’s a direct elimination match. We played them two weeks ago, we beat them at home. We know it will be tough, but we believe in ourselves.”
How do you feel in the midfield?
“When I arrived, I had to adapt quickly. I was a starter from my second match. It helped me quickly grasp the coach’s principles. You’re immediately in the thick of it, you can’t afford mistakes. It allowed me to progress quickly and have a full season. I am happy with what I have produced.”
Returning to Mazamet, does it do you good?
“Yes, of course. I am very attached to Mazamet. I left at thirteen years old, so I didn’t really experience my youth there. Coming back, seeing the young ones, is nice. They are happy to see someone from the area succeed. And seeing the family, friends again, helps me think about something other than football, even though it’s often talked about when I meet people.”
Strong ties with Castres and Mazamet
Do you still have connections with Castres?
“Yes, of course. I still have contact with some coaches. Especially Sammy Kinane, with whom I signed at Montpellier. We are still in touch. I will also go to a club tournament. Mazamet and Castres are important clubs for me. I don’t forget where I come from.”
Do you follow what’s happening in Ligue 1?
“We are starting to talk about it a bit, yes. We see possible teams like Auxerre or Le Havre. I also have a friend at Nice, Elye Wahi, I called him to tease him. But we stay focused on Friday. It’s a huge step. After that, we will see. Each opponent will be very tough.”
In summary, the article highlights an interview with Samy Benchamma, a player from Rodez AF, discussing his team’s successful season, his personal journey, the upcoming playoff games, his connection to Mazamet and Castres, and his ambitions for the future. The player’s positive attitude and determination shine through as he prepares for the challenges ahead.
