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FC Nantes and Olympique de Marseille will collide in an intriguing Ligue 1 clash at Stade de la Beaujoire on the upcoming weekend. With Nantes battling to climb out from the relegation zone and Marseille riding high in second place, the stakes could hardly be higher. Set against the backdrop of contrasting forms, this Friday evening showdown promises to be a gripping contest.

Analysis:

FC Nantes: The 2022 Coupe de France winners and 2023 finalists, Nantes, despite their recent successes, have faced a relentless struggle in Ligue 1. With the league being reduced from 20 to 18 teams, Nantes’ room for error has significantly shrunk, and they’ve begun the 2023/24 season on a rocky note.

In their three matches so far, they’ve managed just one point. Their season opener saw them losing 2-1 to Toulouse, the same side that defeated them in the previous season’s Coupe de France final. A subsequent loss to Lille and a thrilling 3-3 draw against Monaco paints a picture of a team with defensive frailties, especially in the latter stages of games. However, their ability to race to a lead, as shown in their duel with Monaco, suggests that they have the firepower to trouble teams. Mostafa Mohamed, with three goals in as many appearances, will be key to Nantes’ attacking aspirations.

Olympique de Marseille: Marcelino’s Marseille, on the other hand, have had a summer of change but seem to be finding their rhythm in the league. Second in the table ahead of the fourth match day, they have shown resilience, as seen in their comeback win against Stade Reims. Their draw against newly-promoted Metz might be viewed as a hiccup, but a dominant victory over Brest signals intent.

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Marcelino’s summer signings, including the likes of Aubameyang and Renan Lodi, have strengthened Marseille, and their aspirations for the title are evident. Their 2-0 win over former league leaders Brest demonstrates their potential. Yet, a troubling statistic is their recent away form, with no wins in their last four trips.

Team News: Nantes will be missing key players due to injuries, including their regular goalkeeper Alban Lafont. Their probable 3-4-2-1 formation is expected to see Descamps between the sticks, while Mostafa Mohamed leads their attack.

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Marseille is likely to keep their winning formula from the Brest game with a 4-4-2 setup. While they will miss the services of the recently injured Kondogbia, their attacking duo of Ndiaye and Aubameyang will be the ones to watch.

Prediction: While Nantes have shown they can surge ahead, their inability to hold on to leads, combined with Marseille’s recent form, tilts the balance in favor of the visitors. Yet, considering Marseille’s shaky away record, a high-scoring draw is also within the realm of possibility. Goal.mu predicts: FC Nantes 2-2 Olympique de Marseille. This prediction is based on Nantes’ recent attacking form, coupled with Marseille’s away vulnerabilities.

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