Rodez Aveyron Football's reserve team, Rodez II, made a perfect start to its National 2 campaign with a 2-0 victory over Chamalières on Saturday, August 29. The home win at the Stade Vabre marks an ideal beginning for the young squad, promoted this season to the fifth national tier, formerly known as National 3.
The positive context extends to the RAF first team, which is also enjoying a strong start to its Ligue 2 season. They currently sit 3rd in the standings with 7 points, just two points behind leaders Saint-Étienne, after four matches (2 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss). You can track their progress on our standings page.
How did the opening match unfold?
Rodez II took the lead very early in the match. Mamadu Silla opened the scoring in just the 8th minute, giving his team an immediate advantage. The Rafistes continued to press and Maexan Teyssèdre forced the opposing goalkeeper into a save in the 14th minute. Despite this early dominance, the game experienced a long lull after the first goal. Rodez goalkeeper Stanislas Natiez had to stay alert, making an important stop against Chamalières' Colas Chastang in the 38th minute.
The second half saw Rodez II regain control. The introduction of substitute Miguel Wansianga added dynamism, and the second goal originated from one of his shots. Maexan Teyssèdre finally doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, sealing the 2-0 scoreline. The pitch at Stade Vabre, worn by a particularly hot summer, did not make things easy for either side.
What did the coach make of the performance?
Eric Duraisin, the new coach of Rodez II, greeted the victory with a mix of satisfaction and high standards. He acknowledged the result's importance for the group's confidence but pointed to shortcomings in their play. "I am eternally dissatisfied, so I cannot be happy with that performance, but we win, so much the better," he told Centre Presse Aveyron. Duraisin highlighted the profile of his squad, describing a "very young" team facing "experienced and seasoned" opponents.
He also noted a trend observed during pre-season. "It's a bit like our friendly matches. We start very well, but at some point, we rush our play." For him, this win is a good foundation to refine the team's collective play and gain maturity in managing games.
What is the broader context for the club?
This success for the reserve team fits into a positive dynamic for all of Rodez Aveyron Football. The first team, which has scored 10 goals and conceded 7 this season, is preparing for an important away fixture against 7th-placed Metz on September 5th. The schedule for upcoming matches is available on our fixtures page.
The promotion and strong start of Rodez II in National 2 are vital for the development of the club's young players. It provides a high level of competition, just below the professional championship, and serves as a valuable talent pool for the future. Individual performances can be followed in our stats section. This opening victory sets the team on the right track for its objectives of consolidation and progress in this new division.
