On Sunday, Strasbourg will host Lorient at Stade de la Meinau for Matchday 16 of the Ligue 1 season. The teams are experiencing contrasting fortunes. Strasbourg comes into the match after a 1-0 loss to Toulouse, dropping them to eighth in the standings. Meanwhile, Lorient’s recent 1-0 victory over Lyon has propelled them to 13th place.
Current Form and Key Statistics
Strasbourg is struggling with a three-match losing streak in Ligue 1. This marks a sharp turn from their impressive start to the season when they won four of their first five matches with narrow margins. Lately, they have lost three consecutive matches by just one goal, scoring only once during this stretch.
They aim to avoid losing consecutive matches at home for the first time this season, having suffered only three defeats at Stade de la Meinau thus far. Notably, Strasbourg has been successful against newly promoted teams, winning their last five encounters, including victories over Metz and Paris FC this season.
Lorient’s Recent Resurgence
Lorient has begun to stabilize its performance, distancing itself from the relegation zone. Currently, they are six points clear of the drop zone and are on a two-match winning streak. They have managed to earn points in five of their last six Ligue 1 matches.
A win on Sunday would mark their first three-match winning streak since early 2024. However, Lorient seeks to break a 12-match winless run away from home in Ligue 1, having only scored two away goals this season.
Head-to-Head Record
- Lorient is unbeaten in their last two visits to Strasbourg.
- They secured a decisive 3-1 victory during their last away match against Strasbourg in 2024.
Team News
For Strasbourg, Saidou Sow will miss the match due to a knee issue. Abdoulaye Ouattara is sidelined with a hamstring strain, while Emanuel Emegha and Valentin Barco are doubtful due to minor injuries. Maxi Oyedele may also miss out because of muscle soreness.
On the Lorient side, Bandiougou Fadiga and Panos Katseris are both doubtful due to injuries. However, Kan Guy Arsene Kouassi is expected to play despite the upcoming African Cup of Nations, while captain Laurent Abergel will be unavailable due to suspension. Pablo Pagis is leading Lorient with five goals this season and recently contributed to their victory against Lyon with a crucial score.
Predicted Lineups
| Strasbourg | Lorient |
|---|---|
| Penders | Mvogo |
| Omobamidele | Meite |
| Sarr | Talbi |
| Chilwell | Yongwa |
| Doue | Le Bris |
| El Mourabet | Avom |
| Doukoure | Karim |
| Amo-Ameyaw | Kouassi |
| Enciso | Sanusi |
| Panichelli | Pagis |
| Nanasi | Soumano |
Match Prediction
Predicted outcome: Strasbourg 1 – 0 Lorient. Strasbourg may regain their defensive strength, capitalizing on Lorient’s offensive struggles, especially in away matches.
