St Etienne vs Rodez Predictions for this Ligue 2 play-off final. Saint-Etienne and Rodez AF clash in Ligue 2 playoffs at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, both aiming for top-tier return. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Ligue 2 | play-off final – May 24, 2024 at 7.30pm UK at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard
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St Etienne vs Rodez Predictions
Saint-Etienne and Rodez AF Clash in a Pivotal Ligue 2 Playoff Battle
Key Stats
– Saint-Etienne have remained unbeaten in their last seven home games.
– Rodez AF have only secured six away victories in 19 attempts this season.
– Ibrahim Sissoko has netted 12 times for Saint-Etienne this campaign.
Saint-Etienne and Rodez AF are set to clash in a pivotal Ligue 2 playoff match at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. Both teams aim for a return to the top tier of French football, with Saint-Etienne looking to secure their spot in Ligue 1 directly from this stage, while Rodez AF have already overcome Paris FC to reach this point.
Match Preview
Saint-Etienne, after finishing eighth last season and missing promotion, have been resolute in their campaign this term. They secured third place in the Ligue 2 standings, thus bypassing the initial playoff rounds. Despite a hiccup against Quevilly on the final day, their overall performance has been commendable. Notably, they are unbeaten in their last seven home matches, a streak they will look to extend in this crucial encounter. Ibrahim Sissoko, a key player for Saint-Etienne, has been instrumental, scoring 12 goals this season and establishing himself as a potent force in their attack.
On the other side, Rodez AF come into this match on the back of a dramatic playoff victory over Paris FC, where they triumphed in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. Their journey to this stage was fraught with tension, with goals from Bradley Danger and Killian Corredor keeping their hopes alive. However, Rodez’s form on the road has been inconsistent, with only six wins in their 19 away matches this season, a stat they must improve to challenge Saint-Etienne effectively.
Team News and Tactical Analysis
Saint-Etienne’s Expected Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Gautier Larsonneur
- Defenders: Appiah, Briancon, Nade, Petrot
- Midfielders: Moueffek, Monconduit, Cardona, Chambost, Cafaro
- Forward: Sissoko
Rodez AF’s Expected Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Jaouen
- Defenders: Danger, Yao, Mambo
- Midfielders: Haag, Sylla, Rajot, Taibi, Abdallah
- Forwards: Corredor, Hountondji
Saint-Etienne’s lineup suggests a balanced approach with a focus on solid defensive organisation and quick transitions. Larsonneur, expected to start in goal, provides reliability at the back. The defensive pairing of Briancon and Nade will be crucial in thwarting Rodez’s attacking duo. Midfielders like Moueffek and Monconduit will aim to control the tempo, while the creative force of Chambost and Cafaro will support Sissoko upfront.
Rodez, likely to deploy a two-man forward line with Corredor and Hountondji, will look to exploit any defensive lapses from Saint-Etienne. Danger and Mambo in defence, along with the young goalkeeper Jaouen, will have to be at their best to withstand the pressure from Saint-Etienne’s attack. Midfielders Haag and Sylla will be pivotal in both breaking up play and initiating counter-attacks.
Gameplay Expectations
Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this match could hinge on midfield battles and the effectiveness of each team’s pressing game. Saint-Etienne, with their home advantage and recent form, are likely to dominate possession, aiming to break down Rodez’s defence with patient build-up play. Rodez, conversely, will look to sit deep and hit on the counter, utilising the pace and finishing ability of Corredor and Hountondji.
Key duels will include Saint-Etienne’s Sissoko against Rodez’s central defenders and the midfield clash between Monconduit and Sylla. Saint-Etienne’s full-backs, Appiah and Petrot, will also be crucial in providing width and stretching Rodez’s defensive lines.
Analysis of Expected Goals Averages
Saint-Etienne have averaged 1.3 goals per game this season, reflecting a solid but not overly prolific attack. Their defence has been more impressive, conceding just 0.8 goals per game and keeping 19 clean sheets. Rodez, on the other hand, have a higher goals per game average at 1.6, but their defensive frailties are evident, conceding 1.3 goals per match and only achieving eight clean sheets. These statistics suggest that while Rodez can score, they are vulnerable at the back, which Saint-Etienne will look to exploit.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Saint-Etienne:
- Strengths: Strong home form, solid defensive record, and key players like Sissoko and Larsonneur in good form.
- Weaknesses: Recent inconsistency, potential fatigue affecting performance, and over-reliance on Sissoko for goals.
Rodez AF:
- Strengths: Resilient in tough situations, potent attacking duo in Corredor and Hountondji, and youthful energy.
- Weaknesses: Poor away form, defensive vulnerabilities, and inconsistency in maintaining leads.
Managerial Analysis
Olivier Dall’Oglio of Saint-Etienne has shown tactical acumen in stabilising the team and guiding them to a strong finish. His ability to motivate and organise his squad will be crucial. However, his decisions in recent matches suggest some tactical rigidity, which could be exploited by more adaptable opponents.
Didier Santini of Rodez has demonstrated resilience and strategic flexibility, especially in the playoff against Paris FC. However, his side’s defensive inconsistencies and poor away record reflect areas needing improvement. His management style, while effective in high-pressure situations, might lack the tactical depth required to consistently outmanoeuvre higher-ranked teams.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield will be the battleground where this match is likely decided. Monconduit and Sylla’s performance in dictating play and winning second balls will be critical. The defensive organisation of Briancon and Nade against the attacking prowess of Corredor and Hountondji will also be a key duel.
Predictions
- Best Bet: Saint-Etienne to Win and Both Teams to Score With Saint-Etienne’s strong home form and Rodez’s ability to find the net, a home win with both teams scoring appears a plausible outcome. Saint-Etienne’s defensive record suggests they will concede fewer goals, but Rodez’s attacking threat means they are likely to score at least once.
- Correct Score Prediction: Saint-Etienne 2-1 Rodez AF Given Saint-Etienne’s scoring average and Rodez’s defensive vulnerabilities, a 2-1 scoreline seems probable. This prediction aligns with the expectation of a competitive match where Rodez manages to score but ultimately falls short.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Ibrahim Sissoko to Score Sissoko has been in fine form, and given his role as Saint-Etienne’s primary goal threat, he is likely to find the net. His positioning and finishing ability make him a consistent scoring threat.
- Corner Prediction: Total Corners Over 9.5 Both teams average around five corners per game, suggesting a high number of corners overall. Given their playing styles, this match could see plenty of set-piece opportunities, pushing the total corners over 9.5.
- Innovative Market Prediction: Player Total Shots on Target – Ibrahim Sissoko Over 2.5 Sissoko’s role as the main forward and his shooting frequency indicate he will likely have multiple shots on target. Given Rodez’s defensive gaps, Sissoko should exceed 2.5 shots on target in this match.
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