Clermont vs Lens Prediction & Tips
Clermont are sinking through the table after losing five straight Ligue 1 games, the first time they have lost five games in a row since 2006, and after a promising start to the season, they are starting to look like a relegation candidate, somewhat expected before the start of the campaign. Still, a 1-0 win over defending champion Lille remains a highlight of their campaign, and is one of four home games this season in which Clermont scored first (G2, P2).
As the first French professional soccer club to have a woman in the role of coach (2014-2017), staying in their first season in Ligue 1 would be another proud moment in the club’s history. However, it is shaping up to be a long and tough season ahead for Clermont, a team that have been beaten in their last three games as they lost the second half each time, as well as conceding six goals after the 75th minute in that span.
After missing European competitions last season, few would have expected Lens to once again be among the contenders to qualify for the cups from the start of this campaign. Only the star-studded PSG have scored more goals than Lens’s 27 before this day, helping Lens win by two or more goals difference in each of their last three wins.
However, the standings can be a bit misleading, and Lens’ three away losses in Ligue 1 this season have come in their last three away games. In fact, they have not won in the last 13 Ligue 1 away games in which they conceded the first goal (E5, P8), so the visitors’ continuation of the march in the table could depend on their obtaining the advantage in this match quickly.
Players to watch: Mohamed Bayo continues to impress for Clermont, scoring the first goal in five of his six Ligue 1 games in which he has seen an opponent’s goal. Florian Sotoca scored and provided an assist last round – both teams scored in each of their last nine games in which he scored.
Highlight: 53% of Lens matches in Ligue 1 have ended with more than 3.5 goals in total – the highest in the competition.
Clermont – Lens FREE TIPS
Lens – Win @ 2.25
Both teams to score / YES @ 1.80
Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.90
