Red Star’s strong start to 2025 was propelled by a crucial goal from Aliou Badji, as they triumphed 2-0 over Rodez in their opening match of the new year.
The win, achieved on Friday, extended their unbeaten run and further solidified their position in Ligue 2.
Having recently clawed their way out of the relegation zone with four points from their final two matches of 2024, the Seine-Saint-Denis club headed into the match against Rodez in confident spirits.
With six points separating them from the bottom three, Red Star entered the fixture in 13th place in the league table, looking to build on their recent momentum.
Friday’s victory was particularly significant as it ended Rodez’s impressive nine-match unbeaten streak, which had seen them secure four wins and five draws.
The Aveyron side had been in strong form, but Red Star demonstrated resilience and determination to claim all three points on the road.
The decisive moment came early in the second half when Senegalese striker Aliou Badji broke the deadlock in the 47th minute.
Badji, who had already netted three goals this season with the promoted side, showed his clinical touch to put Red Star ahead.
While he was presented with an opportunity to double his tally later in the match, a penalty in the 83rd minute was missed, but his earlier contribution was enough to secure the win.
With this victory, Red Star not only continued their positive run of form but also disrupted Rodez’s aspirations.
The three points pushed them further away from the relegation zone, offering the club fresh hope as they look to navigate the challenges of the second half of the Ligue 2 season.
