Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
Among Sunday's Ligue 1 games, it makes sense to pay attention to the confrontation between Havre and Lens. I offer my betting option for the upcoming battle, will the teams please with the results?
Havre
Havre’s season has been disappointing, with the team sitting second-to-last in the Ligue 1 standings. They are four points away from safety, and while the season is only halfway through, they need significant improvement to avoid relegation.
In their last match, Havre suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat away to Marseille, marking their fourth consecutive loss. The team’s form is alarming, and they have already been eliminated from the Coupe de France by a lower-division opponent. Their focus now lies entirely on improving their league position.
Lens
Lens currently sits seventh after 16 rounds, a decent position but far from their ambitions. They trail the top six by three points and the top four by four points, keeping them within striking distance of European spots.
In their most recent match, Lens suffered a surprising 0-1 home defeat to Toulouse, hindered by David Da Costa’s red card shortly after coming on as a substitute. Like Havre, Lens has exited the Coupe de France, albeit narrowly against PSG in a penalty shootout.
Match Facts
- Havre has the worst home record in the league, with just 2 wins and 8 losses.
- Lens has only lost once away, with 3 wins and 4 draws.
- Odds: Havre to win (P1): 5.7, Draw (X): 3.8, Lens to win (P2): 1.66
Head-to-Head
Last season, both matches between these teams ended in draws: 0-0 and 1-1.
Prediction
Both teams are struggling in attack, and this game is likely to be a scrappy contest with limited scoring opportunities. While Lens is the favorite, Havre’s desperate need for points might make this closer than expected.
Betting Recommendation: Bet on under 2.5 total goals. Both teams have shown inconsistencies in front of goal, and this matchup has the makings of a low-scoring affair.
