In a thrilling encounter at Stade de Paris, RED Star FC 93 handed Saint Etienne a significant setback, winning 2-1 and solidifying their position in the upper echelons of Ligue 2. Scoring twice within the first half, Damien Durand was the hero for the home side, netting both goals as they set the tone early in this critical match on November 1, 2025.
The match could not have started better for RED Star FC 93, who found the back of the net just one minute after kickoff. A quick succession of passes opened space for Durand, who struck early to give his team a lead that would reverberate throughout the stadium. This goal not only energized the crowd but also put immediate pressure on Saint Etienne, who were looking to build upon their previous impressive win against PAU just days earlier.
As both teams settled into the rhythm of play, it became clear that RED Star FC 93 was intent on asserting themselves. They doubled their advantage in the 31st minute when Durand capitalized on a defensive lapse from Saint Etienne. With an opportunistic mindset and skillful execution, he once again found space and slotted home his second goal-a moment that seemed to dim any hopes of an easy victory for the visitors.
Trailing by two goals heading into halftime, Saint Etienne knew they had to elevate their game if they were to avoid further embarrassment. Despite showing flashes of promise leading up to this match, having recently endured some disappointing results including a crushing loss at Annecy, they entered this contest desperate for points and pride.
The second half began with renewed vigor from Saint Etienne, who dominated possession and created several chances in search of a way back into the game. Their persistence paid off when Zuriko Davitashvili managed to pull one back in the 72nd minute. The talented forward showcased his scoring abilities with a well-placed shot that sparked hope among his teammates and supporters alike. However, even with momentum shifting momentarily, time was against them.
As they pushed for an equalizer, notably advancing numbers forward in search of further opportunities, they left themselves vulnerable at the back-a gamble that almost paid off but ultimately fell short as RED Star FC 93 held firm on defense.
With this win, RED Star FC 93 now sits firmly in second place with 26 points from their first thirteen matches-just three points clear of third-placed Saint Etienne, who remain at 23 points but see their chances for climbing stalled momentarily following this loss. For RED Star, this result is particularly sweet given their recent struggles; they had faced a tough defeat against Dunkerque mere days prior yet rebounded impressively today.
Reflecting on my pre-match predictions where I expected a tight contest between these sides based on their contrasting forms-one riding high while the other stumbled-I must acknowledge I may have misjudged how tenaciously RED Star FC 93 would defend their home turf after such disappointment just days ago.
Looking ahead, both clubs have important fixtures coming up next week: RED Star FC 93 will travel to Le Mans while Saint Etienne heads to Estac Troyes. The stakes remain high as both aim not only for promotion aspirations but also for stockpiling crucial points as we near winter and those all-important playoff positions become clearer.
As fans reflect on today's events underlining resilience and tactical discipline displayed by RED Star FC 93, it is evident that every point counts in what remains an unpredictable season in Ligue 2-a true testament to why football can be so exhilarating and dramatic week after week.