William Kokolo played a role in Laval’s much-needed 2-1 victory over Rodez, a result that not only ended a troubling losing streak but also reignited the club’s hopes of reaching the Ligue 2 promotion play-offs.
The match, part of the 31st round of the French second division, saw Laval bounce back from three consecutive defeats to claim three crucial points against a Rodez side featuring Congolese international goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi—though the latter remained on the bench after recently losing his starting position.
Kokolo, a Congolese left-back, came on during the closing stages of the game, helping his team see out the win after they had done the hard work earlier.
While his minutes were limited, the result carries significant weight for a Laval team that had begun to falter at a critical moment in the season.
With this win, they not only stabilised their campaign but also closed the gap in the race for the final play-off spot.
The performance was seen as a collective triumph, with the entire squad putting in a determined effort to reverse their recent fortunes.
Laval now sit in sixth place with 46 points, just two points behind fifth-placed Guingamp, who currently occupy the final spot for the promotion play-offs.
With only three games remaining in the regular season, Laval’s challenge is clear: maintain winning form and capitalise on any slip-ups from Guingamp or the teams just above them.
Every point gained or lost from here on out could prove decisive in determining whether they can extend their season into the play-offs—and potentially fight for a return to the top flight.
Their next test will come against Amiens on Friday, 25 April, a fixture that will likely be just as pivotal. Victory there could see them break into the top five depending on other results, while anything less might seriously dent their chances.
Kokolo’s contributions, whether from the start or off the bench, may prove increasingly important as the margins tighten.
His experience and versatility will be valuable assets for head coach Olivier Frapolli as he looks to guide the team through this intense final stretch.
Meanwhile, Mpasi’s continued absence from the starting lineup signals a shift at Rodez, who, despite their recent form, still remain in contention for a solid finish.
The Congolese keeper, who has previously featured as a regular for club and country, will be hoping to reclaim his spot before the season concludes.
With the race for promotion heating up and just a few games left, every fixture in Ligue 2 is taking on the intensity of a final.
For Kokolo and Laval, the road to the play-offs is back open—and with momentum on their side, belief within the squad appears to have been reignited at just the right moment.
