01 Brice MAUBLEU (asse) during the Ligue 1 Uber Eats Playoffs match between Saint-Etienne and Rodez at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on May 15, 2026 in Saint-Etienne, France. (Photo by Philippe Lecoeur/FEP/Icon Sport)
Saint-Étienne will face a Ligue 1 opponent next week after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout sealed their promotion hopes. The Verts battled to a 0-0 draw against Rodez, but clinched victory 7-6 on penalties, ending a five-game losing streak in shootouts—a drought dating back a decade.
Maubleu’s heroics send Saint-Étienne through
Philippe Montanier’s gamble paid off when he replaced the starting goalkeeper with penalty specialist Brice Maubleu, who delivered four crucial saves. Though he missed his own attempt, Maubleu’s heroics ensured Rodez’s shooters were left empty-handed. “I had the chance to win it, missed, and then had to step up again—thankfully, Mika Nadé finished the job,” he admitted post-match.
Rodez’s promotion hopes dashed at Geoffroy-Guichard
The match at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard was tense, with both sides creating limited chances. Wilitty Younoussa’s header rattled the crossbar, while Rodez squandered a golden opportunity late in the game. The 21-match unbeaten run for Rodez came to an abrupt end in this high-stakes clash.
Next challenge awaits the Ligue 2 finalists
Saint-Étienne, relegated last season, now have a shot at redemption. Their playoff opponent will be determined after this weekend’s Ligue 1 fixtures, with the winner facing the 16th-placed team. Two years ago, the Verts overcame Metz in a dramatic playoff to secure promotion—before immediate relegation. This time, they aim to stay in the top flight.
Montanier’s tactical masterclass
The coach’s decision to bring on Maubleu proved decisive. Gautier Larsonneur, who started the match, made way for the specialist, who lived up to his reputation. The victory marks a significant turnaround for a team desperate to return to Ligue 1’s elite.
