The fight for survival intensifies for AJ Auxerre as they prepare to take on Strasbourg this weekend. The match will take place at Stade Abbe-Deschamps. Auxerre currently struggles in French Ligue 1, managing just three home victories all season. They are keen to turn their home ground into a fortress to secure their top-flight status.
Match Preview: Auxerre vs Strasbourg
With only two wins from their last 20 Ligue 1 matches, Auxerre finds itself battling against relegation alongside Nantes and Metz. They currently occupy the relegation play-off spot but remain hopeful. Their last league outing ended in a 2-2 draw against Lorient, marking one defeat in their last five matches.
Auxerre’s Performance
- Current League Position: Relegation play-off spot
- Last 5 Matches: 1 victory, 3 draws, 1 defeat
- Top Scorers: 19 goals scored, lowest in Ligue 1
- Recent Goals: 5 goals in the last 3 matches
- Defensive Record: 35 goals conceded, 5 clean sheets
Despite their scoring struggles, Auxerre displays a strong defensive record compared to rivals in the relegation zone. They last defeated Strasbourg in August 2022, and history shows they have lost six of the last seven face-offs against them.
Strasbourg’s Ambitions
On the other hand, Strasbourg aims for a return to European competition. They come into this match following a victory over Stade de Reims in the Coupe de France quarter-finals, marking their 20th win this season across all competitions.
- Current League Position: 5 points behind UEFA qualification spots
- Last 12 Matches: 3 victories
- Recent Form: Unbeaten in the last 3 matches
- Most Recent Away Victory: January, 4-1 against Lille
Strasbourg’s inconsistency in league performance is a concern, with six away defeats this season. However, they have historically fared well against Auxerre, remaining unbeaten in their last four encounters.
Team News
For Auxerre, Nathan Buayi-Kiala is sidelined due to a ligament tear. Lasso Coulibaly also has a minor injury concern. Oussama El Azzouzi’s participation is uncertain due to a hamstring issue.
Strasbourg welcomes back Sam Amo-Ameyaw and Maxi Oyedele, while Emanuel Emegha remains unavailable. Ben Chilwell and others risk suspension after accumulating yellow cards this season.
Possible Lineups
Auxerre’s Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Leon
- Defenders: Senaya, Diomande, Okoh, Mensah
- Midfielders: Owusu, Danois, Casimir, Oppegard
- Forwards: Namaso, Sinayoko
Strasbourg’s Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Penders
- Defenders: Doue, Doukoure, Omobamidele, Chilwell
- Midfielders: El Mourabet, Barco
- Forwards: Moreira, Enciso, Godo, Panichelli
Match Prediction
With Auxerre desperate to maintain their Ligue 1 status and Strasbourg seeking European qualification, this match promises to be intensely competitive. A draw of 1-1 seems likely as both teams strive to secure vital points in their respective battles.
