Brest Set to Face Auxerre Without Key Players Del Castillo and Haïdara

BREST, France – The Stade Brestois will host AJ Auxerre this Friday, February 14, at 20:45, in a critical Ligue 1 matchup, but will do so without two key players, Romain Del Castillo and Massadio Haïdara, both sidelined due to injuries.

Del Castillo, who has been absent since February 1 due to a strain in the internal ligament of his knee, will miss his fourth consecutive match. The 27-year-old was last seen on the field during a Ligue 1 game against Paris Saint-Germain, where he sustained the injury.

“He is still dealing with discomfort and is not ready to return,” a club spokesperson confirmed.

Haïdara, a crucial part of Brest’s defense, will also be unavailable for selection. The 30-year-old has been recovering from injury and, along with Del Castillo, is not part of the 20-man squad announced by coach Éric Roy for the clash against Auxerre.

In place of Haïdara, Justin Bourgault is expected to make his professional debut, filling in at left-back as Jordan Amavi and Bradley Locko continue their rehabilitation. The absence of experience in defense will place additional pressure on the remaining players.

Additionally, Pierre Lees-Melou, who missed training this week due to an ankle issue, will also not participate in the match against Auxerre. “He has a slight block in his ankle but is seeing a therapist, so we remain hopeful for his return soon,” Roy mentioned.

Despite these absences, Brest aims to capitalize on their home advantage at Stade Francis-Le Blé. The team recently claimed a victory over a lower-tier opponent in the Coupe de France and is eager to build on that momentum.

Both teams are looking to improve their positions in the league, with Brest aiming for European qualification spots and Auxerre striving to distance themselves from the relegation zone.

The expected starting lineup for Brest includes: Mathieu Bizot in goal, with defenders Luck Zogbé, Julien Le Cardinal, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, and Bourgault. The midfield trio is projected to consist of Hugo Magnetti, Edimilson Fernandes, and Mahdi Camara, while the forward line will feature Mama Baldé and Abdallah Sima accompanying Ludovic Ajorque.

In contrast, Auxerre will be without right-back Paul Joly, suspended after accumulating yellow cards, and defender Sinaly Diomandé, who is injured. The visiting team will look to capitalize on Brest’s defensive gaps in pursuit of vital points.

The match is set to be broadcast live on DAZN, providing essential viewing for fans following both teams’ journeys this season.