Metz and AS Saint-Étienne played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in Ligue 2 at the Stade Saint-Symphorien on September 20, 2026. In a match between two historic clubs with promotion aspirations, both sides showed attacking intent but had to settle for a share of the spoils.

Match Overview

Saint-Étienne drew first blood in the 23rd minute, capitalising on a defensive mix-up to score from close range. Metz responded well and equalised in the 39th minute with a powerful header from a cross. The hosts then took the lead in first-half stoppage time, converting a penalty after a handball.

The second half was more cagey, but Saint-Étienne found an equaliser in the 68th minute with a curling effort from the edge of the box. Both teams pushed for a winner, but neither could find the net again.

Key Moments

• 23' – Saint-Étienne goal: A defensive error is punished.
• 39' – Metz equaliser: A header from a deep cross.
• 45+1' – Metz penalty: Converted to give the hosts a half-time lead.
• 68' – Saint-Étienne equaliser: A curling shot from outside the box.

Tactical Story

Metz set up in a 4-4-2 and looked to use their wingers to stretch Saint-Étienne's defence. The visitors, in a 4-2-3-1, controlled possession at times but were vulnerable to counter-attacks. Both managers made attacking substitutions in the final 20 minutes, but the defences held firm.

Standout Players

Metz's striker was a handful all evening, scoring once and winning the penalty. Their midfielder dictated play. For Saint-Étienne, their playmaker was creative, and their goalscorer showed great technique for the equaliser.

Table Impact

The point keeps both teams in the promotion mix in Ligue 2, though each will feel they could have taken all three. Metz remain in the playoff places, while Saint-Étienne stay within touching distance of the automatic promotion spots.