Nantes vs Auxerre Prediction: Both sides should offer goals

On August 25, 2024, FC Nantes are going to be hosting AJ Auxerre at Stade de la Beaujoire in their second game of the current Ligue 1 2024-25 season. Nantes had opened their campaign with a goalless draw at Toulouse, while Auxerre had won 2-1 at Nice.

Last season wasn't pretty for Nantes, as they just missed out on relegation. They have made some good signings in this transfer window; most of them have been for defensive strengthening. But they still fail to find consistency; as they are blowing hot and cold this season. Home advantage does help, though, considering their fans create a great atmosphere during the matches.

So, in this case, it will boil down to Nantes' new defensive signings against an energetic Auxerre attack that has been good so far in preseason. Provided Nantes can keep things tight at the back, they'll frustrate Auxerre and might win with a single goal.

Auxerre is the newly promoted team after an intensive campaign in Ligue 2 and will be keen to prove they belong among the top flight. They have acquired momentum and usually dole out surprises—usually teams coming from Ligue 2—in their early games. That is a big step forward in rivalry, so they will have to adjust very fast to the rhythm of playing and the level of quality in Ligue 1. Midfield battle will be important. Nantes perhaps have more experience, but Auxerre's midfielders have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

In the past 20 meetings, Auxerre won 9 matches, Nantes won 7 and 4 matches ended in a draw.

H2H Streaks

Auxerre is without a clean sheet in 9 consecutive matches

9/10 matches ended with less than 4.5 cards

Nantes need to show that they are much better than last season, and Auxerre comes with promotion buzz. This will be a grim battle!

Nantes should do enough to stay undefeated at home, but Auxerre has some momentum and might take a point here. The draw does seem to be the smart play in this one; if you're feeling a bit adventurous, both teams will score.

• Over 2.5 Total Goals at 2.095 Odds
• Both Teams to Score at 1.81 Odds
• Correct Score 2-2 at 15.00 Odds