Le Mans FC - AS Saint-Étienne ai prediction 03.01.2026 Ligue 2

Preview for match Le Mans FC vs AS Saint-Étienne

As the 18th matchday of Ligue 2 approaches, football fans are gearing up for an exciting encounter between Le Mans FC and AS Saint-Étienne at the MMArena on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 20:00. Both teams are currently tied in points, with Le Mans sitting in the 3rd position and Saint-Étienne closely trailing in 2nd place. This match is pivotal for both sides as they aim to solidify their standings in the league and push for promotion.

Le Mans FC has been impressive this season, registering eight victories so far, along with six draws and three defeats, resulting in a goal tally of 22 scored against 17 conceded. Their home form is particularly strong, having achieved five wins at home, which reflects their solid defensive capabilities and attacking prowess. Meanwhile, AS Saint-Étienne boasts a slightly superior attacking record with 35 goals scored but also concedes more, having allowed 25 goals in total. Their away record shows five wins, one draw, and three defeats. The recent form of both teams suggests a competitive matchup, with Le Mans FC winning their last five fixtures, while Saint-Étienne has experienced mixed results with two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their recent outings.

Historically, Le Mans FC has had the upper hand in their previous meetings with Saint-Étienne, including a thrilling 3-2 away victory in their last encounter. This trend adds an additional layer of intrigue as they prepare to clash once again. Both teams will be eager to assert dominance and secure crucial points in the race for promotion.

Our betting tip for the match Le Mans FC vs AS Saint-Étienne

Our betting prediction for this encounter leans towards an away victory for AS Saint-Étienne, making Tip 2 a compelling option given their current form and attacking capabilities. The odds for an away win stand at 2.45 with Betano, which presents a valuable opportunity for bettors. Additionally, considering both teams' scoring trends, we recommend a second tip suggesting that both teams will score, with favorable odds of 1.69 at Bet9ja.

Our tips

Handicap 0-1

Draw

Le Mans FC have won by exactly 1 goals 4 of their last 5 matches.

AS Saint-Étienne have lost by exactly 1 goals 2 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Le Mans FC's last 5 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of AS Saint-Étienne's last 5 matches.

Top odds at 1xBet

Double Chance

1X

Le Mans FC have won or drawn 5 of their last 5 matches.

AS Saint-Étienne have drawn or lost 3 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI prediction for the match Le Mans FC vs AS Saint-Étienne

In assessing the possible outcomes of this encounter, the AI betting tip suggests that AS Saint-Étienne is likely to emerge victorious based on their relatively high scoring rate and Le Mans FC's recent strong form. The forecast indicates a possible scoreline of 2-1 in favor of AS Saint-Étienne, reflecting their offensive strength against Le Mans’ solid defense. This prediction aligns with statistical trends and the current form of both teams.

Le Mans FC performance check

Le Mans FC has shown remarkable consistency this season under the guidance of coach Videira. With 30 points accumulated, the team occupies a commendable 3rd position in the league table. Their recent form is particularly impressive, having won their last five matches without a single draw or defeat, showcasing a robust defensive organization and an effective attacking strategy. The home advantage at MMArena will be crucial as they look to maintain their winning streak against a strong opponent like AS Saint-Étienne.

How is the current performance of AS Saint-Étienne

AS Saint-Étienne, managed by Eirik Horneland, currently sits in 2nd place with an equal tally of 30 points. Their season has been characterized by a potent attacking display, scoring 35 goals to date. However, their recent form has been less consistent, with two wins, a draw, and two defeats in their last five matches. The team's ability to secure points on the road will be key to their ambitions, and they will aim to bounce back from a recent loss to OGC Nizza.

Last direct match

The last direct meeting between Le Mans FC and AS Saint-Étienne ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory for Le Mans, showcasing their capability to compete and score against a traditionally stronger opponent.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

In their last five encounters across all competitions, Le Mans has triumphed three times, while AS Saint-Étienne has managed one victory and there has been one draw. This historical advantage may play a psychological role in the upcoming match.

Performance last 5 matches

Le Mans FC has been in outstanding form, achieving five consecutive wins without a draw or defeat. In contrast, AS Saint-Étienne has experienced two wins, one draw, and two defeats, indicating a dip in performance compared to their earlier season form.

Performance

Le Mans FC

Last games

Le Mans FC performance of the last 4 home matches

Victories

75%

Over 2.5

0%

AS Saint-Étienne

Last games

AS Saint-Étienne performance of the last 6 away matches

Victories

33%

Over 2.5

83%

Last match results of Le Mans FC and AS Saint-Étienne

In their most recent fixture, Le Mans FC secured a 2-1 away victory against FC Périgny. Conversely, AS Saint-Étienne suffered a 1-2 defeat against OGC Nizza, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of the two teams heading into this match.

Best odds and our betting tip for the match

For bettors looking for the best odds, Tip 1 (away win for AS Saint-Étienne) is offered at 2.45 by Betano, while Tip X (draw) is available at 3.50 via Bet9ja. Our recommendation is based on our experiences with various betting sites, which have consistently provided competitive odds for Ligue 2 matches. We encourage bettors to explore the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison for optimal value.

Conclusion on the match

In conclusion, the match between Le Mans FC and AS Saint-Étienne promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams. While Le Mans has demonstrated remarkable form, the attacking prowess and historical advantage of AS Saint-Étienne cannot be overlooked. Thus, our final prediction leans towards an away victory for Saint-Étienne, complemented by a recommendation that both teams are likely to score.

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