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Lens and Marseille lock horns at Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Saturday evening, a Ligue 1 fixture that promises thrills as two French giants collide. With only one win separating the two sides across 100 previous meetings, Lens are looking to build on recent momentum, while Marseille aim to steady the ship after a surprising loss.

Match Preview

Lens: Battling for Top Four

Will Still’s Lens have had a rollercoaster season thus far, but their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Nantes before the international break showcased their grit and determination. Trailing 2-1 with just four minutes remaining, late goals from Hamzat Ojediran and Adrien Thomasson turned the tide, sparking celebrations across the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

Currently seventh in Ligue 1, Lens have collected 18 points from 11 games and sit just two points behind fourth-placed Lille. Despite defensive concerns – conceding four goals in their last two home games – the Blood and Gold remain formidable at home. With two consecutive wins over Marseille on their turf, Lens could make it three in a row for the first time since the 1980s.

However, Will Still’s side will need to tighten up defensively against one of the league’s best attacking outfits. Lens have already conceded 11 goals this season – a concerning stat for a team aiming for European qualification.

Marseille: Away-Day Specialists

While Lens have shone at home, Marseille have excelled on the road. Roberto De Zerbi’s men boast the best away record in Ligue 1, having collected 15 points from six games. Only Barcelona have fared better on their travels across Europe’s top five leagues.

Despite this, Marseille’s form has been inconsistent. A shocking 3-1 home defeat to Auxerre before the international break underscored their struggles at the Stade Vélodrome, where they’ve managed only one win this season. De Zerbi’s comments following the match, suggesting he might resign, raised eyebrows, but the board has reiterated its support for the Italian tactician.

Currently third in Ligue 1 with 22 points, Marseille find themselves nine points behind leaders PSG but within touching distance of the chasing pack. However, with tough fixtures against Monaco and Lille on the horizon, Marseille cannot afford to drop points if they wish to maintain their Champions League push.

Team News

Lens

Defensive injuries and suspensions are a headache for Will Still. Jonathan Gradit and Abdukodir Khusanov are suspended, while Przemyslaw Frankowski’s fitness remains uncertain. Long trips for South American stars Facundo Medina and Jhoanner Chavez could also impact the defensive setup.

Martin Satriano and Wesley Said are sidelined, but M’Bala Nzola’s return from suspension provides a much-needed boost in attack. Expect Adrien Thomasson and Angelo Fulgini to feature prominently in the midfield battle.

Marseille

Roberto De Zerbi faces his own squad challenges, particularly with players returning late from international duty. Geronimo Rulli, Leonardo Balerdi, and Ismael Kone were involved in long-haul travel, while Derek Cornelius and Amine Harit are injured. Valentin Carboni and Faris Moumbagna remain long-term absentees.

On the brighter side, Adrien Rabiot returns after an exceptional international break, where he scored twice against Italy. He’s likely to anchor the midfield alongside Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Up front, Wahbi Khazri could lead the line, supported by Luis Henrique and Emile Smith Rowe.

Key Players

• Lens: Adrien Thomasson
  The French midfielder was instrumental in Lens’ victory over Nantes, providing a crucial late goal. His creativity and eye for goal will be pivotal against Marseille’s sturdy defense.
• Marseille: Adrien Rabiot
  Fresh from his international heroics, Rabiot’s ability to control the midfield and contribute in attack makes him Marseille’s linchpin in this encounter.

Prediction

This clash pits Lens’ home dominance against Marseille’s away proficiency. While Lens have shown resilience, Marseille’s ability to score on the road could tip the scales.

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts:
Lens 1-2 Marseille.
Expect a tight contest with Marseille’s away form giving them a slight edge.

Betting Tips

1. Both Teams to Score: Yes
   Lens have scored in their last three matches, while Marseille’s attack remains potent on the road.
2. Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5
   Given the firepower on both sides, expect a high-scoring affair.
3. Anytime Scorer: Adrien Rabiot
   The midfielder is in fine form and could add to his tally.

Hot Stat

Marseille have scored at least twice in five of their last six Ligue 1 away matches – a statistic that bodes well for their trip to Lens.

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