Game Preview: Montpellier vs Nantes
Montpellier will host Nantes in a crucial Ligue 1 encounter, with both teams looking to gain an upper hand as they navigate through a challenging season. Montpellier comes into this match with a disappointing run of form, having suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in their last outing. Meanwhile, Nantes secured a 2-0 victory against AJ Auxerre, which should boost their confidence heading into this fixture.
Key Stats & Insights
- Montpellier: In their last 10 league games, Montpellier has recorded 4 wins, 2 losses, and 4 draws, with an average of 1.3 goals per game. Their defensive frailties have been exposed, conceding 1.5 goals per game.
- Nantes: Nantes has struggled with consistency, managing 3 wins, 4 defeats, and 3 draws in their last 10 games. They’ve averaged 0.8 goals per game while conceding 1.4 goals per game.
- Head-to-Head: The last 10 encounters between these teams have been evenly matched, with Nantes slightly ahead with 4 wins, 3 losses, and 3 draws. Their most recent meeting ended in a 1-1 draw.
Team Form and Performance
- Montpellier: Montpellier’s form has been shaky, particularly at home, where they haven’t won in their last three league matches. Their defense has been porous, conceding 13 goals in their last six games.
- Nantes: Nantes is unbeaten in their last six matches and has opened the scoring in seven of their last eight games. However, they’ve struggled on the road, failing to win in their last four away games.
Player Form and Availability
- Montpellier: Key player Téji Savanier will be crucial for Montpellier, having scored 3 goals this season. They will, however, miss Issiaga Sylla and Lucas Mincarelli due to injuries.
- Nantes: Matthis Abline has been the standout performer for Nantes with 4 goals this season. Moses Simon, who scored in their last match, will also be a key player. Nantes will be without Fabien Centonze due to injury.
Predicted Lineups
- Montpellier (4-2-3-1): Benjamin Lecomte; Enzo Tchato, Becir Omeragic, Modibo Sagnan, Falaye Sacko; Jordan Ferri, Joris Chotard; Tanguy Coulibaly, Téji Savanier, Musa Al-Taamari; Akor Adams.
- Nantes (4-4-1-1): Alban Lafont; Marcus Regis Coco, Nicolas Pallois, Nathan Zeze, Kelvin Amian; Sorba Thomas, Douglas Augusto, Pedro Chirivella, Moses Simon; Tino Kadewere; Matthis Abline.
Market Analysis (Odds)
- Montpellier: 2.30 (43% probability)
- Draw: 3.30 (29% probability)
- Nantes: 3.10 (31% probability)
Predictions
- Best Bet: Nantes +0.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.90 (-110) – Nantes has been strong defensively and has covered this line in 8 of their last 10 away games.
- Correct Score Prediction: 1-1 Draw – Given the recent form and head-to-head record, a draw seems likely with a low-scoring affair.
Final Thoughts
This match promises to be a close contest, with Nantes having a slight edge in form despite playing away from home. Montpellier will need to address their defensive issues if they hope to secure a win. A draw appears to be the most probable outcome, with Nantes potentially snatching a point.