We have two top derbies in the French Ligue One this weekend, one in Marseille, where the host meets with Rennes, and the second in Lyon, who awaits the champions, PSG. Apart from that, round 8 brings a few more interesting battles, and we are here to present the best of them with a preview, picks and odds.
Marseille VS Rennes
The hosts suffered a highly unpleasant loss against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League. That has been a very tough blow for this team’s ambitions in the most prominent European competition. It was the second defeat in three events, both in the UCL, while in the meantime, they posted excellent results in the domestic championship, having five wins in a row.
On the other hand, Rennes didn’t lose in the past five rounds, winning three and recording two draws. They play open football, seven of the previous nine events, ending with both teams netting.
Marseille will be extra cautious in this one, and we don’t believe that Rennes would go out to take an offensive-minded approach, especially because they know that the hosts wait for their chances on a counter-attack. That’s why betting on a moderate efficiency, 2 or 3 goals is the best thing here.
Pick: 2 or 3 goals 19/20 at BetXchange
Lyon VS PSG
There aren’t too many secrets between these teams. For the past few years, they played numerous clashes, in which we saw fierce battles. PSG comes to Groupama following a game in Israel against Maccabi Haifa, feeling some fatigue.
On the other hand, the hosts had enough time to recover from the previous game, as they didn’t play on the international stage. Currently, they’ve experienced back-to-back defeats, both on the road, against Lorient and Monaco, and four of their past five games have ended with both teams scoring or over 2.5 scores.
PSG played 10 events this year, winning nine with one draw in the meantime. Eight were with three or more goals, and in those same events, the Saints hit the back of the rival’s net at least twice. Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe are playing very well this year, finally looking like a team not just a bunch of individuals.
The mentality of both teams guarantees goals, and we predict at least three in this event. The odds are not bad, and we think that there is a solid value in this pick. Lyon will seek a win over the great rival, don’t doubt that for a second, even though the recent results and the order standings don’t suggest that.
Pick: Over 2.5 goals 2/5 at BetXchange
Nantes VS Lens
The home team and the reigning French Cup champions lost three of the previous four games and have just one win in the Ligue One since the campaign began. They are experiencing hard times, with the defense being the main problem of the unit. For instance, in three of the past four games, they would allow at least three goals.
Lens is on the rise and one of the most positive surprises right now, with five wins and two draws in seven Ligue One contests. The guests play fluid and adaptable football, scoring when needed, while on the other side, protecting their net as well in crucial moments.
The best pick here would be both teams to net. Rennes has to go out strong and attack the guests, otherwise, another loss would lead them into despair and a very problematic situation. As for Lens, they have a solid attack who faces wounded and shaky defense, so scoring a goal here shouldn’t be a problem for them.
Pick: Both teams to score 2/3 at BetXchange
