Metlaoui vs Slimane Prediction: A tough opener ahead

Métlaoui Municipal Stadium will host the Tunisia Ligue Professionnelle 1 encounter between Metlaoui and Slimane. The odds slightly favor Metlaoui in this game, while the visiting Slimane are underdogs. How will this game end?

Metlaoui head into the new season with hopes after only avoiding relegation the previous season. In the regular season, Metlaoui had 9 points from 12 matches, scoring 10 goals and conceding 20. However, their relegation performance improved as they accumulated 20 points from 14 games, leaving them 5th. Heading into the new season, Metlaoui lost two of their last five games, drawing two and securing a 2-1 win over Olympique Beja. 

Slimane had a very tough time the previous season and will have to improve this new season. Last season, Slimane had only 3 points in the regular season from 12 matches, scoring 7 goals and conceding 19. In the meantime, their relegation season saw Slimane picked up 19 points from a possible 42, leaving them seated 7th. However, this team needed a playoff to remain in the league, thanks to a 0-1 win over AS Marsa. Heading into the season, Slimane have four wins and one draw in their last five matches. 

This game should be a tight one. Looking at the level of play of both sides, there are little differences in their squad. Therefore, with this game expected to be close from the beginning, a first-half draw is a good option. Also, while Metlaoui are at home, I expect them to have the upper hand. However, the road team performs better in this new season, and I do not expect them to struggle. Take this game to end with few goals focusing on defensive play, while the home team wins at full time.