St. Étienne edge Troyes 3–2 in thriller to tighten title race
St. Étienne reignited their promotion hopes with a dramatic 3–2 away victory over league leaders Troyes, cutting the gap at the top of the table to just two points.
The visitors made a blistering start, racing to a three goal advantage before halftime. Maltese international Irvin Cardona played a key role, doubling St. Étienne’s lead in the 32nd minute with a composed finish after a swift counterattack. His performance was pivotal in setting the tone for a dominant first half by Les Verts.
Despite Troyes’ spirited comeback after the break finding the net twice to set up a tense finale, St. Étienne held firm. Cardona was substituted eight minutes from time after a tireless display that earned him a standing ovation from the traveling supporters.
The result narrows Troyes’ lead at the top of the table, with St. Étienne now sitting third, just two points adrift. With both sides showing their attacking flair, the battle for promotion promises to go down to the wire.
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