Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
Montpellier
Lyon
On February 18, Ligue 1 will feature five Sunday matches, including an important clash between Montpellier and Lyon. Can Lyon secure three crucial points, or will Montpellier cause an upset? Here’s my detailed betting preview for this matchup.
Montpellier
It has been a disastrous season for Montpellier, as they sit last in the Ligue 1 standings. They are three points behind the relegation playoff spot and six points away from full safety.
In their last match, Montpellier lost 0-2 away to Strasbourg, marking their second consecutive defeat. Their biggest issue is defense, as they have conceded 48 goals in just 21 matches, the worst defensive record in the league.
Their main objective is to avoid relegation, and while they have shown some good performances, their defensive fragility remains a major concern.
Lyon
Lyon is aiming to climb back into the top spots of Ligue 1, but they lack consistency. They are currently sixth in the table, trailing the top four by four points.
In their last match, Lyon thrashed Reims 4-0 at home, ending a four-game winless streak.
Lyon is also still competing in the Europa League, having finished sixth in the group stage, meaning they will play in the playoffs. However, their main goal is to return to the Champions League, which will be difficult given the intense competition in Ligue 1.
Probable lineups
- Montpellier: Lecomte, Sainte-Luce, Sagnan, Meïté, Chato, Fayad, Omeragic, Chotard, Savanier, Delort, Koulibaly.
- Lyon: Lucas Perri, Kumbedi, Clinton Mata, Niakhaté, Tagliafico, Matić, Tessmann, Cherki, Tolisso, Nuamah, Mikautadze.
Match facts
- Montpellier at home: 3 wins, 3 draws, 5 losses.
- Lyon away: 3 wins, 4 losses, 4 draws.
- Betting odds: Montpellier 4.90 | Draw 4.35 | Lyon 1.66.
Head-to-head (H2H)
First-leg result: Lyon won 1-0 in a tough battle, with the only goal coming from an own goal in stoppage time.
Prediction
Lyon is the logical favorite, but this match will not be easy. Montpellier is fighting for survival, while Lyon is pushing for a European spot.
Montpellier has home advantage, but Lyon has the better squad and is in stronger form. This should be a tight, competitive game, but I believe Lyon’s quality will be enough to secure the win. Best bet: Lyon to win outright.
