AJ Auxerre have made a strong surge after their promotion, yet their rise to challenge for a European spot has likely not fazed RC Lens. The team form Lens have found decent form, edging closer to the top four through solid performances, and a narrow victory against the underdog should suffice for the favourites.
After their stumble against Toulouse (0:2), it seemed certain that AJ Auxerre would falter against Paris Saint-Germain, but they managed to hold on for a draw (0:0). In that encounter, the team created just 0.28 xG and managed only two shots on target—setting up a tight defensive line with a low block has become their forte. Impressively, at home, the Ligue 1 newcomers have conceded only five goals in seven matches, the best record alongside PSG.
Over the past month, RC Lens have secured three victories in four fixtures, only slipping against Olympique de Marseille (1:3). Their clashes with Stade de Reims and Montpellier HSC (both 2:0) showcased the depth of their squad. Notably, they've only conceded 12 goals across 14 games (the second-best record in the league, tied with AS Monaco). However, RC Lens struggle with finishing (23.40 xG and 17 goals), making their upcoming away trip a real test.
In their current campaign, RC Lens have experienced just three matches exceeding a total over 2.5. AJ Auxerre, too, won't expend all their effort on attack—this encounter, likely sparse on opportunities, should result in minimal goals.
