This was an exciting fixture last season with both encounters ending up 2-2, so there was nothing to separate Montpellier and Strasbourg. The latter now have a new man in the dugout in Liam Rosenior who's never managed out of England.
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Montpellier vs Strasbourg prediction: A tough game to call
Key stats
- The home side in this fixture has scored at least two goals in the last five meetings
- Both teams have scored in all but one of the previous six matches between Montpellier and Strasbourg
- Strasbourg won just three away league games last season
Correct score prediction: Montpellier 1-1 Strasbourg
The fact that these two had to settle for a draw on both occasions last season and both teams have scored in five of the last six meetings, this prediction appears rather safe. However, with this being Rosenior's first competitive game in charge, there are still a lot of unknowns.
Pre-game odds and win probability: A home win is highly expected
- Home: 11/10 (2.1) – 47.6%
- Draw: 23/10 (3.3) – 30.3%
- Away: 5/2 (3.5) – 28.6%
Having played out two 2-2 draws last season it's rather surprising to see the odds be so low for these sides to share the points. Montpellier are heavy favourites for this weekend, and with Strasbourg having a new manager and playing away from home, it's not ludicrous to back the hosts.
We're struggling to split them so we would opt for the BTTS market and a draw, but many will favour Montpellier. So, we're offering a full range of free betting tips to whet your appetite ahead of this weekend's fixtures.
Most recent H2Hs: Goals should be expected
The away side has not won this fixture since May 2021, so home advantage is a huge thing for Montpellier this weekend. Two draws last season point toward the same outcome, however, what is seemingly nailed on is that goals always follow this clash.
France Ligue 1 03/03/24
Montpellier
Strasbourg
France Ligue 1 17/09/23
Strasbourg
Montpellier
France Ligue 1 05/02/23
Strasbourg
Montpellier
France Ligue 1 17/09/22
Montpellier
Strasbourg
France Ligue 1 16/01/22
Strasbourg
Montpellier
Montpellier preview: Home crowd will be expecting three points
Having finished last season lingering around mid-table, the Montpellier fans will be keen for their side to kick on and get back near the right end of the table. La Paillade only managed to pick up three home wins in the league last campaign, so three points on Sunday are needed for a good start.
Predicted lineup: Lecomte (GK), Tchato, Sylla, Sagnan, Omeragic, Ferri, Issoufou, Savanier, Tamari, Nordin, Adams
France Ligue 1 28/09/24
L
Monaco
2
Montpellier
1
France Ligue 1 22/09/24
W
Auxerre
2
Montpellier
3
France Ligue 1 15/09/24
L
Rennes
3
Montpellier
0
France Ligue 1 31/08/24
L
Nantes
3
Montpellier
1
France Ligue 1 23/08/24
L
PSG
6
Montpellier
0
Strasbourg preview: Liam Rosenior hoping to spring a surprise
Having been sacked by Hull City over the summer, Rosenior was picked up by Strasbourg and tasked to lead them up the Ligue 1 table. Le Racing Le RCS comfortably finished 10 points above the drop but no longer wish to be looking over their shoulders.
Predicted lineup: Risser (GK), Delaine, Sow, Sylla, Doue, Diarra, Santos, Mwanga, Bakwa, Perea, Emegha
France Ligue 1 29/09/24
W
Marseille
0
Strasbourg
1
France Ligue 1 21/09/24
D
Lille
3
Strasbourg
3
France Ligue 1 15/09/24
D
Angers
1
Strasbourg
1
France Ligue 1 30/08/24
L
Lyon
4
Strasbourg
3
France Ligue 1 25/08/24
W
Rennes
1
Strasbourg
3
Player to watch: Teji Savanier
The Montpellier captain has been a top servant for the club since joining in 2019 and this season could be another classic. Teji Savanier finished as the club's top score in Ligue 1 last season at the age of 32.
The French attacking midfielder registered 17 goal involvements across all competitions including one assist in the two matches against Strasbourg. So, he's going to be crucial in Montpellier picking up an important opening win.
