The visitors are aiming to extend their winning streak: Strasbourg vs Lens prediction
The second-round Ligue 1 match between Strasbourg and Lens will take place on 29 August at the Stade de la Meinau. The hosts began the season with a heavy 4-0 defeat to Marseille and dropped to the bottom of the table, while Lens made a bright start with a 5-2 victory over Auxerre.
Strasbourg: defence has once again become the main problem
Hugo Oliveira's first competitive match in charge went very badly. Strasbourg were trailing Marseille 1-0 before Samir El Mourabet was sent off in the 60th minute, after which the team completely lost control and conceded three more goals.
Strasbourg have now gone 15 consecutive matches without a clean sheet, which is particularly worrying ahead of a meeting with a high-scoring opponent. The head-to-head record also favours the visitors, with Strasbourg managing just one win against Lens in their last seven meetings while losing four.
Lens: confidence high after scoring five in the opening round
Dino Toppmöller's side began the season with an entertaining 5-2 victory over Auxerre. After Krist Makosso was sent off for the opposition, Lens gained a numerical advantage and scored four goals in the second half, although they still allowed their opponents to find the net twice.
Florian Thauvin was particularly impressive, scoring twice and providing an assist. Lens have won three consecutive matches in all competitions and have suffered just one defeat over 90 minutes in competitive fixtures since April.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Strasbourg have gone 15 consecutive matches without a clean sheet.
- Lens have won their last three competitive matches.
- Strasbourg have beaten Lens only once in their last seven head-to-head meetings.
The hosts' defence could struggle again: Strasbourg vs Lens prediction
Returning home should help Strasbourg play more aggressively, but their defensive problems look too deep-rooted. Against a Lens side that have already built momentum and are creating chances with confidence, that is a serious concern.
The visitors have a more reliable attack and head into the match in a much better frame of mind. Strasbourg are capable of scoring, but Lens' current form makes an away victory the more likely outcome.