Reims vs Rodez — Ligue 2

**Reims 1-2 Rodez**

**Playing Style:** Reims dominated possession and created more chances, with 66% of ball possession and 18 total shots compared to Rodez’s 13. Their play was more structured, with 558 passes and 87% accuracy, showing strong control in the final third. Rodez, on the other hand, played a more direct style, with fewer passes (279) but higher efficiency in certain areas, such as successful crosses (6 vs 4) and a higher share of shots outside the box (46 vs 39). Rodez also had more successful tackles (12 vs 7) and interceptions (11 vs 6), indicating a more compact and disciplined defensive approach.

**Strengths and Weaknesses:** Reims’ strengths lay in their possession-based play, with a high number of passes in the opponent’s half (214 vs 83) and a strong aerial presence (12 vs 10). They also had a higher shot on target share (62 vs 38) and more touches inside the opponent’s box (26 vs 22). However, their finishing was inconsistent, with only 1 of 2 big chances converted (50%), and they struggled to convert box entries into shots (69 vs 59).

Rodez’ strengths included a more effective defensive structure, with more successful tackles, interceptions, and keeper saves (7 vs 3). They also had a higher rate of passes in the opponent half leading to box touches (27 vs 12), showing better progression into dangerous areas. However, they had fewer total shots and less control in possession, with only 34% ball possession and 279 passes. Their finishing was also limited, with only 1 of 2 big chances converted (50%).

**Conclusion:** Despite Reims’ dominance in possession and shot volume, Rodez managed to win the match by capitalizing on their limited chances more effectively. Reims had more shots on target (8 vs 5) and more big chances (2 vs 2), but their conversion rate was equal to Rodez’s (50%). Rodez’s higher efficiency in progressing from the opponent half into the box (27 vs 12) and their stronger defensive actions (11 vs 6 interceptions) likely contributed to their ability to score despite fewer attempts. The result suggests that Rodez’s clinical finishing and disciplined defense were decisive, while Reims’ inability to convert their higher volume of chances into goals was a key weakness.