Bitesize Prediction: Clermont vs Lyon – 12/05/24

Competition: Ligue 1

Market: Lyon win

Odds: 4/6 @ Pribet

Hoping to find a shock route into the European places, a high-flying Lyon will travel to the Stade Gabriel-Montpied when they meet Clermont on Sunday night.

Starting with the hosts, while Clermont might have eventually fallen short in their bid to punch a famous European ticket last season, the Lancers have endured a public Ligue 1 crisis this time around. Last seen putting in a nightmare performance away at French giants Monaco as they suffered a 4-1 drumming, that result was enough to officially confirm their top-flight relegation. Breaking a string of unwanted records this year, Pascal Gastien’s men still sit rock-bottom of the table having collected just 25 points from their 32 Ligue 1 appearances. Although the one-time Niort boss might have seen his downbeat squad sign off April with a 4-1 victory against Reims, that is the only win that Clermont have collected from their previous six top-flight showdowns. Simply looking to cause a dent of Lyon’s European charge this weekend, Gastien’s side have gained a reputation for their extended defensive issues. Conceding 54 goals this season, the Lancers hold the second-worst defensive tally among France’s elite.

As for the visitors, although Lyon might have opened the New Year at the heart of an infamous relegation scrap, Les Gones have come roaring back in a remarkable fashion. Last seen putting in a stunning performance away at historic rivals Lille as they eventually snatched a 4-3 victory, Pierre Sage’s men certainly find the mood in their camp at a red-hot high. Skyrocketing their way up the Ligue 1 standings, Sunday’s guests remarkably open up this weekend’s fixtures sat just two points adrift of finding a route into the European places. Signing off April with another action-packed display as they secured a 3-2 win against Monaco, Lyon have won five of their previous six appearances across all competitions. Storming their way to this season’s Coupe de France final as they claimed a routine 3-0 romp against Valecciennes, Sage’s side have gained a fearsome reputation for their free-scoring performances in the final third. It should also be noted, Les Gones have won seven of their last eight showdowns away from the Groupama Stadium.

Bet: Lyon 4/6 to beat Clermont in Sunday’s Ligue 1 battle @ Pribet