A data at the origin of a great revival this season?

In an intense match against FC Nantes, AS Saint-Étienne achieved a historic performance in terms of ball possession. Sous la houlette d'Eirik Hornelandthe Greens posted a record possession percentage of 74,9%the highest ever recorded in the elite since statistics were collected by choose in 2006-2007.

Exceptional mastery of the game

The Stéphanois demonstrated a impressive technical dominationachieving no less than 740 passesdont 653 successful. These figures demonstrate a asserted desire to control the game and to impose an offensive style of possession, as demonstrated by the team against Stade de Reims and Paris Saint-Germain.

A new lease of life under Horneland

This historic performance marks a turning point in the Greens' game since the arrival of the Norwegian technician Eirik Horneland. Far from criticism of their sometimes sterile game, the Stéphanois showed a new offensive identityseeking to control encounters through possession. Despite the 1-1 draw against Nantes, the Greens have more possession of the ball, a sign of a notable tactical evolution under the direction of Horneland. This change in philosophy, if it manages to materialize in clear opportunities, could well restore color to ASSE.

A challenge of consistency

However, the task remains arduous for the Greens who, despite this encouraging performance, remain more than ever in the position of play-offs in Ligue 1. The late equalization of Boakye against Nantes illustrates the difficulties in converting possession into goals. Regularity will be key to transform this new style into convincing results, starting next Friday with a trip to the AJ Auxerre field.