ASSE started 2025 on a positive note. In bad shape before the break, with an uncomfortable 16th place, the Greens brilliantly beat Reims (3-1) for their first match under the new Norwegian coach, Eirik Horneland. A collective performance rewarded, since four Stéphanois appear in the typical team for the 16th day of Ligue 1, published by the newspaper L'Équipe.
Four Greens in the spotlight
It’s a great recognition for the men in green, with performances that left their mark. Mickaël Nadé, author of a decisive pass for Boakye on the Saint-Etienne equalizer, delivered a solid performance in central defense. At his side, the young Louis Mouton distinguished himself in midfield by recovering 9 balls, confirming his key role in the midfield. In attack, Lucas Stassin shone with a goal and an assist. These three players, rated 7/10, appear alongside stars like Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé in this ideal eleven. A successful first for the Saint-Etienne collective, which seems reinvigorated by the change of coach.
Eirik Horneland inherits the same rating and appears for the first time as coach of the weekend in Ligue 1!
Other ASSE notes
In addition to the four elected officials, other Stéphanois also received encouraging notes. Bouchouari (7/10) controlled his midfield perfectly, while Batubinsika and Appiah (6/10 each) contributed to the defensive solidity. In the cages, Gautier Larsonneur (5/10) made some important saves despite difficult playing conditions. The performances of Ekwah and Cafaro (6 and 5/10 respectively) also show that ASSE can count on a homogeneous squad.
A rise in the rankings
This victory allows the Stéphanois to exit the red zone. Now 15th, they benefit from the results of their direct competitors. Nantes, which occupied the play-off position, could not do better than a draw against Lille (1-1). Montpellier, on the other hand, conceded a frustrating defeat against Lyon (1-0). Le Havre, another competitor for maintenance, sank against Marseille (5-1), while Angers took a little breath by winning against Brest (2-0).
With this positive momentum and a new coach at the helm, ASSE will have to continue its efforts to move away from relegation. The momentum is underway!
