Troyes vs Nantes Prediction & Tips
While Troyes remain in the midst of one of the most hotly contested relegation battles in Europe, the pressure on coach Bruno Irlès has eased somewhat after two positive results in Ligue 1 (G1, E1). A 2-0 win over fellow strugglers Bordeaux in their last outing lifted Troyes out of the relegation zone, while also ending their longest winless run in this top flight campaign (E2, P3).
Considering Troyes remain bottom of the table after the last five home league games (E3, P2) they must improve soon at the Stade de l’Aube if they are to avoid a fourth consecutive immediate relegation as a newly promoted top flight side. The home side will surely have to be more cautious in defence than usual, as the last two goals they conceded at home were scored from the penalty spot.
Having last seen their team play in UEFA competition in 2004/05, Nantes fans could be dreaming of another European adventure. A 2-0 win against Montpellier put them within touching distance of the top five, but their lack of goals could hold them back, as their 36-goal tally is the lowest among the top 11 teams in the Ligue 1 standings.
Only 12 of those goals were registered on rival soil, where the “Canaries” have not won any of their last three league matches (E1, P2). Despite this, Nantes’ tag as favourites for this clash favours them to extend their current unbeaten run of eight games against newly promoted sides (G3, E5). Impressively, they also won their last five Ligue 1 meetings against their opponents without conceding a goal.
Players to watch: Demonstrating Troyes’ attacking frailties, defender Adil Rami is the only player to have scored twice during their last nine Ligue 1 matches. Ludovic Blas has been a lucky charm for Nantes, contributing to victories by two goals or more in eight of the ten official matches in which he has been on target in 2021/22, including the last meeting between the two sides.
Key stat: More than half (55%) of the last 27 meetings between the two sides in Ligue 1 have resulted in a goalless draw at half-time.
Troyes – Nantes FREE TIPS
2-3 GOALS @ 2.25
