MATCH OVERVIEW
The clash between Saint-Étienne and Nice in the Ligue 1 is set to be a captivating encounter, with both teams eager to secure vital points. Saint-Étienne, playing at home, will aim to leverage their familiarity with the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard to challenge a formidable Nice side. This match is crucial for both teams as they navigate the latter stages of the season, with Nice looking to solidify their position in the upper echelons of the table, while Saint-Étienne seeks to climb out of the lower ranks.
ODDS ANALYSIS
The average odds for this match suggest a strong favoritism towards Nice, with odds of 1.6 for an away win, translating to a 62.5% probability. Saint-Étienne, on the other hand, is seen as the underdog with odds of 5.38, giving them an 18.6% chance of victory. The draw is priced at 4.4, indicating a 22.7% likelihood. Based on these odds, Nice is expected to dominate, but the unpredictability of football means Saint-Étienne could still spring a surprise.
TEAM ANALYSIS
Saint-Étienne
Saint-Étienne's current form has been inconsistent, with an average of 1 goal per match and a concerning 2.3 goals conceded per game. Their defensive frailties are evident, as highlighted by their Expected Goals Against (xGA) of 2.34. Offensively, they rely on players like Zuriko Davitashvili, who has netted 7 goals this season. However, their overall attacking output remains modest, with an average of 9.43 shots per game.
Nice
Nice enters this match in a stronger position, averaging 2 goals per game and boasting a solid defensive record with only 1.17 goals conceded on average. Their Expected Goals (xG) of 1.75 indicates a potent attack, spearheaded by Evann Guessand and Gaëtan Laborde, both with 9 goals this season. Nice's tactical approach focuses on maintaining possession and exploiting their opponents' defensive lapses.
KEY PLAYERS SPOTLIGHT
Saint-Étienne
- Zuriko Davitashvili: With 7 goals, he is Saint-Étienne's top scorer and a key figure in their attack.
- Irvin Cardona: Contributing 2 goals, his performance will be crucial in breaking down Nice's defense.
Nice
- Evann Guessand: A prolific scorer with 9 goals, his ability to find the net will be pivotal.
- Gaëtan Laborde: Matching Guessand's tally, Laborde's form is vital for Nice's offensive success.
STATISTICAL DEEP DIVE
- Saint-Étienne: Average possession of 44% and 3.35 shots on target per game.
- Nice: Superior possession at 47.26% and 5.3 shots on target per game.
- Defensive Metrics: Nice's defensive solidity is underscored by their lower xGA of 1.3 compared to Saint-Étienne's 2.34.
PREDICTION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the statistical analysis and current form, Nice is favored to win this encounter. Their superior offensive and defensive metrics, combined with key players in form, give them the edge. Saint-Étienne will need to tighten their defense and capitalize on set-pieces to challenge Nice effectively.
Final Score Prediction: Saint-Étienne 1-3 Nice Half Time Score Prediction: Saint-Étienne 0-1 Nice Both Teams to Score Probability: 60% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 65%