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On Thursday, May 30, 2024, Saint-Etienne and Metz will clash in the first leg of the French promotion/relegation playoff final at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. This high-stakes match will determine which team secures a coveted spot in Ligue 1. Saint-Etienne aims to return to the top tier after narrowly missing automatic promotion, while Metz fights to retain their Ligue 1 status after a challenging season. This encounter promises intense action as both clubs vie for their future in French football.

Match Preview

Saint-Etienne narrowly missed out on automatic promotion to Ligue 1, finishing third in Ligue 2. Their recent victory over Rodez AF, marked by goals from Irvin Cardona and Nathanael Mbuku, secured their place in the playoff final. Under head coach Olivier Dall’Oglio, Les Verts have been formidable at home, losing only five times and conceding just 14 goals this season. As they prepare for the crucial first leg, Saint-Etienne will rely on their strong home record and solid defensive performances.

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Metz, on the other hand, barely escaped automatic relegation from Ligue 1. Despite finishing 16th, they have struggled with form, ending the season with four consecutive losses, including a 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Their possession stats have been dismal, averaging only 35% throughout the season, the lowest in Ligue 1’s recorded history. Metz’s defense has been particularly vulnerable, conceding 30 first-half goals in 34 games. However, they boast an attacking threat in Georges Mikautadze, who had scored in 11 successive matches before being shut out by PSG.

Detailed Analysis

Saint-Etienne:

• Recent Form: Saint-Etienne has been consistent in Ligue 2, securing a spot in the playoff final after a solid season. They have shown resilience, especially in crucial matches, which bodes well for their playoff ambitions.
• Head-to-Head: In their most recent encounters, Metz has had the upper hand, winning both matches in Ligue 2 last season. However, Saint-Etienne’s current form and home advantage could turn the tide in their favor.
• Key Players: Ibrahim Sissoko, with 13 goals this season, will be pivotal for Saint-Etienne. Additionally, Irvin Cardona and Nathanael Mbuku, both crucial in the win against Rodez, will look to make an impact.

Metz:

• Recent Form: Metz’s end-of-season slump saw them narrowly avoid automatic relegation. Their defense has been leaky, especially early in matches, which could be exploited by Saint-Etienne.
• Head-to-Head: Metz’s recent victories over Saint-Etienne will give them confidence, but their poor form and defensive frailties remain significant concerns.
• Key Players: Georges Mikautadze will be Metz’s main attacking threat, having had an impressive run of form before the PSG game. The absence of key players like Ablie Jallow and Benjamin Tetteh due to injuries could hinder their performance.

Prediction

Based on current form, head-to-head records, and recent performances, Saint-Etienne appears to have the edge in this playoff encounter. Their strong home record and Metz’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest a favorable outcome for Les Verts.

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Saint-Etienne 2-1 Metz.

• Both Teams to Score: Yes
• Over/Under 2.5 Full Time: Over 2.5

Additional Betting Tips

• First Team to Score: Saint-Etienne
• Half-time/Full-time: Saint-Etienne/Saint-Etienne
• Anytime Goalscorer: Ibrahim Sissoko (Saint-Etienne)

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