MARSEILLE

After the disappointing performance against Monaco in the first round of 2017 (lost 4-1), Marseille made another poor game last week against Lyon (lost 3-1).

They were clueless in the attacking phase, and although they have really gifted players like Alessandrini, Cabella, Gomis or Thauvin, their game doesn’t have a normal flow and most passes miss the target.

Newly arrived midfielder Sanson started in the lineup, but was isolated and couldn’t make much of a difference. Pretty soon we should also see new fullback Evra in the lineup (maybe even this round). On paper Marseille’s lineup is full of highly skilled players, but they always have problems achieving full potential.

Hosts will miss fullback Bedimo and forward Alessandrini, but welcome back midfielder Vainqueur after suspension.

MONTPELLIER

Montpellier made a really poor game last week away at Metz. Opponents started in force, scored twice very early and easily killed the game afterwards (Metz won 2-0).

It was really painful watching Montpellier trying to push the game forward. Once or twice they did manage to enter opponents’ penalty box, but their attempts ended in the stands.

It’s a difficult moment for Montpellier who are playing poor quality football, and have lost key midfielder Sanson. He transferred at Marseille, and most probably will be a starter this round against his former team.

Midfielder Marveaux joined defender Congre and forward Ninga on the injury list. Midfielder Sylla is still on international duty. The good news is that key midfielder Boudebouz is back after injury.

BETTING

Both sides are going through difficult moments, but while Montpellier are relegation material now, Marseille easily belong in the upper half of the table thanks to individual talent that can always make the difference. MARSEILLE -0.75 at 1.99

Marseille: Pelé, Samba – Sakai, Rolando, Rekik, Doria, Evra, Fanni – Vainqueur, Machach, M.Lopez, Zambo Anguissa, Khaoui, Cabella, Sanson – Thauvin, Gomis, Sarr

Montpellier : Pionnier, Jourdren – Mukiele, Deplagne, Hilton, W.Rémy, Mongongu, Pokorny, Roussillon – Skhiri, Passi, Sessegnon, Lasne, Boudebouz – S.Camara, Ikoné, Mounié, Llovet