Introduction

A compelling Ligue 1 encounter is on the horizon as RC Lens prepare to host Olympique Lyonnais at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on December 2nd, 2023. These two sides come into the match with contrasting forms and aspirations, with Lens eyeing the upper echelons of the table, while Lyon seeks to climb away from the relegation zone. This game promises to be a vital clash for both teams, considering their respective positions in the league and prior encounters.

Match analysis

Examining recent statistics, RC Lens appears to be in a considerably strong position. They come into the game with a stable form, evidenced by their last ten matches, marking three victories, and six draws, and suffering only one loss—a heavy defeat in the Champions League against Arsenal. Notably, Lens have shown resilience in defense, particularly in Ligue 1, having kept four clean sheets and secured two 1-0 victories. However, their varied performances in the league and Europe suggest potential volatility that Lyon might exploit.

Contrastingly, Olympique Lyonnais have experienced a series of inconsistent results with only two wins, three draws, and five losses across their most recent games. Their inability to regularly find the net, combined with defensive lapses leading to scoring only four goals and conceding eleven in the same period, has left them languishing at the lower end of the table.

Recent form

Lens's form has been strong recently, with their last five league games resulting in two wins and three draws, representing a 40% win and 60% unbeaten rate—a testament to their defensive solidity and ability to grind out results.

Lyon, on the other hand, showcases a worrying 20% win rate from their last five showings in the league, combined with a 40% draw and loss rate. Their inconsistent performances, which include goals being shipped more frequently than being scored, hint at a team struggling to find a stable footing this season.

Head to head

• Lens victory: 20%
• Lyon victory: 40%
• Draw: 40%

The recent head to head encounters between Lens and Lyon reveal a very balanced history, with Lyon having a slight edge but a significant share of the meetings ending in a draw.

Prediction

Considering Lens's solid form and ranking in the top half of the table, contrasted with Lyon's struggles and lowly 18th position, home advantage could play a crucial role. Given the balance of power from recent performances and the fact that Seasonal forms hint at stability from Lens, while Lyon seems arrayed against a backdrop of uncertainty, the following tips are suggested:

- Full-time score: Lens to win 2-1, playing to their consistent league form against a struggling Lyon side.
- Betting tips:
- 1X2: Lens to Win
- Both Teams to Score: Yes, considering Lyon's attacking intentions to move away from the relegation threat and Lens' occasionally conceded goals
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5, factoring in both teams' recent scoring records
- Asian Handicap: Lens -0.5, providing a slight edge to the home team given their superior form

The game should be an intriguing matchup, with Lens potentially asserting their dominance as they vie for a higher ranking, while Lyon seeks to salvage their season with a surprise upset.