Richard Dean
Updated on: October 10, 2024 10:21 pm GMT
Saint-Etienne will look to secure their first points of the 2023-24 Ligue 1 season when they host Lille at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on Friday. Currently sitting at the bottom of the league table following three consecutive defeats, Les Verts face a critical match as they attempt to turn around a disheartening start to their campaign.
Poor Start for Saint-Etienne
Saint-Etienne’s performance in their first three matches has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. The team has yet to score a goal, an unprecedented situation for the club in Ligue 1 history. This is only the second time Saint-Etienne has opened a top-flight season with three losses, the first occurrence leading to a narrow escape from relegation in the 2009-10 season. A loss against Lille on Friday would mark a new low, making it the first time the club has ever lost four consecutive matches at the start of a Ligue 1 season.
The home side ended their Ligue 2 campaign last season on a high note, remaining unbeaten at home in their final seven matches. However, their struggle to find form has persisted into the current season. In their last Ligue 1 match before the international break, Saint-Etienne suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Brest, further compounding their difficulties.
Lille’s Mixed Form
In contrast, Lille started this season on a positive note but have recently stumbled, suffering defeats in their last two matches. Since the beginning of August, Bruno Genesio’s team was unbeaten in five matches across competitions, demonstrating strong potential. However, back-to-back losses, including a 3-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, have put pressure on the team to regain their winning finish.
Despite their recent setbacks, Lille remains just three points behind PSG for the top spot in Ligue 1 and is within reach of an automatic Champions League qualification spot. Historically, they have had success against Saint-Etienne, having taken points in their last seven Ligue 1 encounters. However, the last win at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard dates back to March 2019, when they won 1-0.
Key Player Absences
Both teams are dealing with injury concerns ahead of Friday’s match. Saint-Etienne will potentially be without captain Anthony Briancon (knee), Yvann Macon (meniscus), and Thomas Monconduit (thigh), leaving them with a depleted squad. Ben Old, who had a muscle injury, returned to play in international friendlies, and Aimen Moueffek has resumed training after a minor knock. However, Augustine Boakye’s availability remains uncertain due to a muscle strain.
On the other side, Lille could miss several key players, including Samuel Umtiti (sore knee) and Nabil Bentaleb (illness). However, Jonathan David, the club’s leading scorer for the past three seasons, is expected to return in time for this match after participating in international duty with Canada.
Projected Lineups
- Saint-Etienne likely starting lineup: Larsonneur; Macon, Batubinsika, Abdelhamid, Cornud; Appiah, Amougou; Moueffek, Davitashvili, Tardieu; Wadji
- Lille likely starting lineup: Chevalier; Diakite, Mandi, Alexsandro; Meunier, Andre, Gomes, Gudmundsson; Zhegrova, Cabella; David
Match Preview
Friday’s encounter is crucial for both teams. For Saint-Etienne, a loss could deepen their woes and raise serious questions about their readiness for Ligue 1 competition after two seasons away from the top flight. Conversely, Lille aims to halt their downward trend and reclaim their early-season form that had them promising for a strong campaign.
Historically, matches between these two teams have been competitive, with Saint-Etienne known for its ability to keep Lille at bay in prior encounters. However, the current form paints a concerning picture for Les Verts, who appear shaky both defensively and creatively.
As both teams get ready for the game, fans are excited to see how the players will handle the pressure. Saint-Etienne really needs points, while Lille wants to show how strong they are. This match is sure to be an important moment in their seasons!
