Rodez Football Club achieved a stunning turnaround on March 10, 2025, as they convincingly defeated Dunkerque 5-1 at their home ground, the Paul-Lignon stadium. This match, part of the 26th round of Ligue 2, not only showcased Rodez's fighting spirit but also solidified their hopes of avoiding relegation.
The evening began on a somber note for the home team when Dunkerque's Skyttä scored with precision just 11 minutes after kick-off, sending the visiting fans to their feet. Despite the early lead, Dunkerque's apparent momentum faltered dramatically when their player Bardeli received a red card for a reckless challenge on Younoussa just 27 minutes in. This dismissal would prove pivotal, turning the tide of the match.
After what had begun as a great start for Dunkerque, the red card altered their strategy and forced them to play defensively. Rodez, who previously lost to Lorient only ten days prior, seized the opportunity to regroup. Coach Didier Santini’s tactical adjustments saw the players pressing forward, spearheaded by Tawfik Bentayeb, who had yet to find the net.
When the second half commenced, the narrative shifted entirely. Just seven minutes renewed their fighting spirit; Bentayeb scored twice within five minutes---first equalizing at 52 minutes and then putting his team up 2-1 at 54 minutes, capitalizing on excellent teamwork and positioning. He concluded the initial phase of Rodez’s remarkable comeback from defense to offense, demonstrating determination.
Nkada followed suit three minutes later at the 57-minute mark, sending the ball sailing past Dunkerque's keeper to make it 3-1. With each goal, the atmosphere among the 4,316 spectators intensified; the crowd erupted as every breakthrough celebrated the home team’s resurgence.
Not resting on their laurels, Rodez continued their relentless push forward. Mazou-Sacko added the fourth goal at 80 minutes, rounding out the triumphant performance, before Taïbi added icing on the cake with the final goal at the 90th minute—barely giving Dunkerque the breath to recover from their earlier plight.
The decisive victory not only moved Rodez up to 14th place with 30 points, distancing them from the relegation zone by five points but also sent shockwaves through the league. This was the third time Dunkerque had surrendered five goals to Rodez, which is no small feat, especially considering the latter's previous struggles.
Post-match reactions were filled with disbelief at Dunkerque's rapid deterioration once they lost their numerical advantage. It highlighted the stunning reversal for Rodez, ensuring both joy and relief were palpable among fans and players alike. One supporter remarked, “C'est fou de voir Dunkerque à la dérive après un début de match très réussi!” capturing the mood of surprise at the match's events.
This outstanding performance by Rodez places them with renewed vigor for their upcoming matches against Annecy and the Red Star, now buoyed by the belief gained from such a significant victory. Santini praised his squad, asserting, “Cette victoire permet aux Aveyronnais de compter cinq points d'avance sur le barragiste clermontois,” recognizing this win as central to maintaining their Ligue 2 status.
The match served as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change within the sport, proving from one outstanding performance, the dynamics of relegation can shift dramatically. Fans left the stadium not just with elation but also with renewed dreams for the season, hopeful for what lies ahead following such exhilarating football.