Analysis of the Saint Etienne team
Saint-Etienne, one of the most famous French football clubs, faces a crucial moment in the season as it seeks a return to the elite Ligue 1. The team is currently in a period of transition, under the leadership of coach Olivier Dall’Oglio, who has managed to stabilize the team after turbulent seasons . Although they missed out on automatic promotion due to a late stumble, finishing third in the League 2 table, they managed to secure a place in the play-off final, giving them a direct chance of a return to the top flight.
Competition form
During the season, Saint-Etienne demonstrated solid defensive performances, conceding only 14 goals at home, making them one of the tightest teams in the league. This defensive stability will be crucial in the upcoming match against Metz. Offensively, the team relies on the contribution of striker Ibrahim Sissoko, who has scored 13 goals this season and has proven to be a key figure in the attack.
In the semi-finals of the playoffs, St Etienne managed to defeat Rodez AF 1-0, thanks to goals from the likes of Irwin Cordona and Natanael Mbuuku, which shows the breadth of offensive options coach Dal’Oglio has at his disposal. This will be crucial in the doubleheader against Metz, where the offensive flexibility and depth of the team will be crucial.
Team news
As for the squad, first-choice goalkeeper Gauthier Larsson has recently recovered from injury and is expected to take his place between the posts again. Also, the return of experienced midfielder Thomas Monconduit to the action represents additional strength in the midfield. Key players like Natanael Mbuuku and Irwin Cordona, who scored in the last game, are likely to keep their places in the starting line-up.
Possible starting lineup
Saint-Etienne is expected to take the field with the following line-up:
Possible starting line-up of Saint-Etienne:
Gauthier Larsson, Macon, Batubinsika, Nade, Petro, Cardona, Mouefek, Monconduit, Chambost, Cafaro, Sissoko
This line-up allows for flexibility and balance between defensive and offensive duties, with the aim of achieving a positive result in the first leg against Metz.
Analysis of the Metz team
Metz, a club with a rich history in French football, is facing the challenge of maintaining their place in Ligue 1. The 2023-24 season was turbulent for the team, but they managed to avoid direct relegation and now have the opportunity to fight for the play-offs survival. Under the guidance of the experienced coach Laszlo Boloni, Metz showed character and fighting spirit, although they faced several heavy defeats in the end of the season.
Competition form
Although the season ended with a run of four straight defeats, including defeat to champions Paris Saint-Germain, Metz showed the ability to compete at the highest level. Their style of play often relies on solid defense and quick counter-attacks, but they have struggled with possession, which was evident in the last match against PSG where they only had 24% possession.
Despite these challenges, Metz have several players who can make the difference in decisive moments. For example, striker Georges Mikautaje was instrumental during the season, scoring in 11 consecutive games before PSG ended that streak. His ability to score from small opportunities makes him a major threat to opposition defences.
Team news
The match will be without several key players due to injuries, including Abli Jallow, Benjamin Tetteh and Joel Asoro, which will present a challenge for Bologna in assembling a competitive squad. However, the team can rely on reliable players like experienced goalkeeper Aleksandar Ukidz and key defender Dylan Bronn.
The attacking trio led by Georges Mikautaje will be key to scoring goals, while the midfield led by Mamadou Fofana and Pape Sarr will be tasked with controlling the pace of the game and supporting the attack.
Possible starting lineup
Metz is expected to take the field in the following lineup:
Metz’s possible starting line-up:
Alexandre Ukidja, Fabien Centonze, Diane Leoni, Mamadou Fofana, Mathieu Udol, Victorien Angban, Pape Sarr, Mamadou Fofana Van Den Kerkhof, Georges Mikoutadze, Ibrahim Niane
This line-up allows for a balance between defensive duties and offensive abilities, with a focus on quick attacks down the wings and the finish of Mikautađe. Metz will try to get a positive result on the road in order to have a better position for the rematch at home.
Betting proposal
X
Reasons for betting on a draw:
Solid defenses: Both teams have shown solid defensive play throughout the season. St. Etienne conceded only 14 goals at home, while Metz often played defensively and cautiously away from home.
Stake and pressure: Given the stakes, both teams are expected to be cautious and play defensively to avoid defeat in the first leg. This can lead to fewer goals and a higher probability of a draw.
Head-to-head statistics: The last meetings between these two teams have often been indecisive. Metz managed to win both matches last season in League 2, but considering the current situation, a draw is very likely.
Form of key players: Both teams have key players returning from injuries who can add stability to the game. Goalkeepers and defensive players are expected to be up to the task, which further increases the chances of a draw.
Conclusion
Considering all the above factors, betting on a draw (X) between St Etienne and Metz seems like a smart option. A hard and uncertain game is expected where both teams could be satisfied with sharing the points before the second leg.
Quota 3.35
NOTE
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