Quentin Braat is back available for selection for Rodez. The 29-year-old goalkeeper, out since August 14th with a calf injury, returned to action in a 2-0 friendly win, reigniting the debate over the starting spot ahead of Saturday's trip to face Saint-Étienne at 8 PM.
Romain Mazzotti confirmed the positive update. "Quentin Braat is available to play with the Rodez team again," he said. His comeback comes at a key time for a Rodez side sitting 14th in Ligue 2 with 7 points from 7 games, and who must travel to face leaders ASSE at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
Braat's credentials
The statistics argue in his favour. Last season, Braat played 36 Ligue 2 matches, conceding 41 goals. Data-Scout ratings rank him as the division's second-best shot-stopper and the top sweeper-keeper, with a stoppage index of 96. He also has positive memories against ASSE, having shone in a penalty shootout last spring. His return provides a serious option for head coach Didier Santini, who must pick his starting lineup.
The team context
Rodez approaches this clash with renewed confidence after a 2-0 win over Inter Club d'Escaldes last week, with goals from M. Essimi and K. Nsona. This win is part of an encouraging recent run, with the team losing only once in their last five matches across all competitions. The squad can check the upcoming fixtures to see what follows this key match. The attack relies on I. Baldé, the squad's top scorer with five goals this season. The goalkeeper selection will therefore be key. Didier Santini must decide if Quentin Braat will start against ASSE. His decision will be revealed at 8 PM on Saturday, at the kick-off of a match that could reignite Rodez's campaign.
Background and full detail: Homme Du Match
