Lens vs Metz predictions as the hosts are looking to secure a win against newly promoted side Mets. After a disappointing start of the new season, will Metz cause them more trouble, or we will see a straight home win? Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Saturday, 16th September at 8:00 pm In:
Lens vs Metz Predictions
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Seeking Redemption and Continuing Resurgence
Key Stats
– Metz have maintained an impressive scoring streak in their last 18 competitive matches.
– Lens have an envious record at home, with 20 wins in their last 25 Ligue 1 encounters.
Lens, after a staggering series of four matches without a win, are eager to revive their Ligue 1 campaign, especially as they host Metz at Stade Bollaert-Delelis this coming Saturday. Their performance this season has been a stark contrast to their exceptional run last season, where they almost clinched the title. They managed just one point from 12 this time around.
This season has seen Lens suffer significantly, most notably with a 3-0 loss to Monaco. They also squandered a two-goal advantage against Brest and later managed a 1-1 draw with Rennes. A further defeat came at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, with a 3-1 scoreline.
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Considering the resilience Lens showed the previous season, finishing just a point behind PSG and maintaining a robust defensive record, this term’s developments are particularly disheartening. It’s evident that the departure of notable players such as Lois Openda and Seko Fofana has had a tangible impact on their performance.
Metz’s Impressive Return
Conversely, Metz, having secured an automatic promotion from Ligue 2, have shown promise in their Ligue 1 return. Despite a heavy defeat by Rennes, they managed a commendable 2-2 draw against Marseille and a 1-0 victory over Clermont, with Georges Mikautadze delivering the crucial goal. Their recent history against Reims also ended in a 2-2 draw, indicating their ability to recover from tough situations.
With Laszlo Boloni at the helm, a seasoned manager familiar with Lens’ dynamics, Metz are optimistic about clinching points from this clash.
Squad Analysis and Potential Lineups
Lens’ predicament has been compounded by injuries, with players like Ruben Aguilar and Jimmy Cabot expected to be sidelined. Yet, the hope lies in new acquisition Elye Wahi, who demonstrated impeccable form last season with Montpellier. Alongside him, Adrien Thomasson and Angelo Fulgini are poised to amplify Lens’ attacking front.
For Metz, Ababacar Lo’s suspension and potential injury absences of Malick Mbaye and Benjamin Tetteh could influence their strategy. However, Boloni is likely to stick with his 4-2-3-1 formation, trusting Simon Elisor to lead the offensive charge.
Statistical Deep Dive and Predictions
Prediction 1: Match Outcome – Draw
Lens have struggled defensively, with a concession of 10 goals, significantly more than their expected goals against (xGA) value suggests. Metz, on the other hand, have shown consistent scoring prowess. Taking into account the current forms and home advantage for Lens, a draw seems plausible.
Prediction 2: Correct Score – 2-2
Given Lens’ defensive woes but strong home performance and Metz’s knack for drawing matches after trailing, a 2-2 scoreline appears justified.
Prediction 3: Goalscorer – Elye Wahi
Elye Wahi, with 19 goals last season, is undoubtedly Lens’ beacon of hope. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to expect him to find the back of the net in this crucial match.
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