After three encouraging first friendly matches concluded on as many victories, Saint-Etienne was defeated, this Saturday at the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium, behind closed doors, by the Belgian champion Anderlecht during two matches of 75 minutes each and lost both (2-1, 1-0). It was the last outing of the Forézienne team before facing Paris SG on July 24 in the final of the Coupe de France.
The only goal from Stéphane was scored from the penalty spot by Ryad Boudebouz who equalized just before halftime of the first game. The Greens' coach Claude Puel has chosen to line up two mixed teams rather than an eleven close to that which will start at the Stade de France on Friday.
A very uncertain offensive sector
Several associations have however been tested as in central defense with Timothée Kolodziejczak and Wesley Fofana in the first match which were followed by Loïc Perrin and Harold Moukoudi in the second. On the left flank, the Brazilian Gabriel Silva injured his thigh and now seems uncertain to face PSG and could force Puel to drag Kolodziejczak to his place while Mathieu Debuchy should occupy the position of right back.
Injured in the left foot against Charleroi (4-0) Wednesday, Yann M'Vila held his place on the second meeting, associated with Mahdi Camara in the middle. Camara as Kolodziejczak, who were to be suspended, will finally be able to play the final by decision of the federation.
On the other hand, the attacking sector seems more uncertain even if the striker Denis Bouanga therefore seems assured. Six players played during the two 75-minute periods, but with only one goal scored from the penalty spot, none seem to have scored points.
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- Anderlecht
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- French Cup
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