METZ

Metz put up a solid performance last week away at leaders Nice (finished 0-0). Besides defending with confidence, Metz also managed to create a couple of goal scoring opportunities, even if they missed forward Erding and winger Jouffre.

Although they are yet to score in 2017, it seems like a promising new year, with two decent performances against PSG (lost 2-0) and Nice (0-0).

Newly arrived Diagne started in central midfield and made an impressive game, with constant efforts, confident tackles and precise passes.

Hosts will once again miss defender Bisevac (suspended) and midfielders Doukoure, Mandjeck and Saar (African Cup of Nations), but important forwards Erding and Diabate are available for action.

MONTPELLIER

Montpellier got a draw last week against Dijon, but didn’t really deserve it. They conceded early, but didn’t intensify efforts afterwards, and most their actions stopped before reaching and opponents penalty box. The equalizer came in the last minutes and took everyone by surprise (finished 1-1).

They looked very vulnerable in defense, and conceded only once because opponents stopped pushing.

Key midfielder Boudebouz missed last round and Montpellier seemed clueless in the attacking phase. Hosts will be in trouble if Boudebouz will transfer out (most likely scenario), and it will take a long time to adapt to a new style.

Midfielder Sanson, another important player, transferred this week, and it will be interesting to see how Montpellier will cope with this situation.

Guests will again miss central defender Congre, but newly arrived defender Mukiele (from Laval in Ligue 2) is in the squad for the first time.

BETTING

When it comes to dedication and creativity, Metz’ performance last round surpassed that of Montpellier’s by miles. With the return of topscorer Erding there is only room for improvement at Metz. METZ DNB at 2.21

Metz: Gardiens : Didillon, Kawashima – Balliu, Falette, Milan, Rivierez, Signorino – Cohade, Diagne, Goudiaby, Hein, Jouffre, Lejeune, Mollet, Nguette, Philipps. – Diabaté, Erding, Vion.

Montpellier: Pionnier, Jourdren – Hilton, Saint-Ruf, Rémy, Mukiele, Roussillon, Deplagne, Passi – Marveaux, Lasne, Skhiri, Sessegnon, – Ikoné, Camara, Mounié.