Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
On February 10, Nice and Lens will face off in a crucial Ligue 1 battle, as both teams fight for a top-four spot. Here’s our expert betting prediction.
Nice
Nice has been solid this season, currently 5th in the standings, just one point behind the top four. In their last league match, they failed to hold onto their lead in a 1-1 draw against Toulouse. They suffered a shock elimination from the Coupe de France, losing 2-1 to fourth-division side Stade Briochin, conceding a stoppage-time winner. Nice also failed to reach the Europa League knockout stage, suggesting they are focusing fully on Ligue 1.
Lens
Lens is right behind Nice, currently 6th in Ligue 1, just two points away from the top four. In their last match, they earned a deserved 2-0 away win against Montpellier, marking their third win in four games. They are out of all other competitions, after losing to PSG on penalties in the Coupe de France. Lens is a defensively disciplined team, boasting the league’s best defensive record, but struggling to score goals.
Probable Lineups
- Nice: Bulka, Bard, Dante, Ndaishimie, Abdi, Santamaría, Boudaui, Klos, Cho, Guessand, Laborde.
- Lens: Ryan, Machado, Medina, Sarr, Gradit, Frankowski, Diouf, El Aynaoui, Thomasson, Wahi, Sotoca.
Match Facts
- Nice at home: Unbeaten in Ligue 1 (6 wins, 3 draws, 0 losses).
- Lens away form: 5 wins, 4 draws, 1 loss.
- Betting odds: Nice – 2.39, Draw – 3.45, Lens – 3.00.
Head-to-Head (H2H)
In the first meeting this season, the teams played a 0-0 draw.
Prediction
This is a key battle between two direct rivals for a top-four finish, meaning a tight and competitive game is expected. Both teams have strong defenses, but given the stakes, each side will have attacking opportunities.
The most logical betting option is both teams to score (BTTS).
