The match between Bordeaux and Rodez (2-2) ended in a stormy atmosphere, including the expulsion of Bordeaux’s Alberth Elis for a headbutt on the opposing goalkeeper.
Five months after the match was stopped due to the attack on Aveyron player Lucas Buades by a Bordeaux supporter, the reunion between Bordeaux and Rodez in Ligue 2 gave rise to a new heated confrontation, Saturday October 28. The very tense match, which ended with a red card on each side, degenerated after the final whistle, with the score 2-2.
Bordeaux striker Alberth Elis headbutted Ruthenian Giovanni Haag, ffrustrated by the turn of events – his team, in difficulty in the standings, led 2-0 before being rejoined. He logically received a red card. “He didn’t shake my hand, so I took him to shake my hand. He turned around and headbutted meGiovanni Haag explained shortly after on beIN Sports. It’s good that there is a little animosity, but it must not go beyond the limits.”
In an incredible end to the match, Giovanni Haag had to play goalkeeper. Defensive midfielder for 88 minutes, he switched to the cage after the expulsion of goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi since Rodez could no longer make a replacement. He also stood out with a stop on his line and a controlled aerial exit to secure the draw, not hesitating to excite the Bordeaux public. “This week, I went to the goals at the end of the session for a laugh. But I wasn’t as good as today!”he smiled afterwards, receiving his man of the match trophy.
Five months after the attack on Lucas Buades
The epilogue of a match played in a very hostile atmosphere for the Ruthenois. A “shame on Rodez” banner was displayed as soon as the visitors warmed up, and whistles and insults accompanied them throughout the meeting.
To understand this atmosphere of rivalry between two teams never opposed in the championship before last season, we must go back to June 2. The decisive match for the rise of the Girondins – and that of the maintenance of the Ruthénois – lasted only 22 minutes. It was interrupted after the opening of the Ruthenian score, by Lucas Buades. A Bordeaux supporter infiltrated the pitch and jostled the striker, who suffered a concussion, during the celebration. Some of the Bordeaux supporters then accused Buades of having simulated.
The Ruthenian victory, decided a few days later on the green carpet, had buried Bordeaux’s last hopes (very meager in any case) of returning to Ligue 1. “Injustice will remain for life”, commented Girondin defender Clément Michelin again this week. The next episode, scheduled for early March in Aveyron, promises to be tough.