Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
AS Monaco need a response after back-to-back defeats against Paris Saint-Germain (1:4) and Benfica (0:1). A home fixture against struggling Nantes presents an ideal opportunity to bounce back, as the visitors are battling to avoid relegation and are likely to sit deep rather than take risks.
AS Monaco
Monaco’s heavy loss to Paris Saint-Germain saw them drop out of the top three, with OGC Nice overtaking them on goal difference (both on 37 points). However, their attacking numbers remain strong, having generated 11.71 xG since the start of January – the sixth-best in Ligue 1. Against Benfica, they fought bravely despite Moatasem Al-Musrati’s early red card, nearly salvaging a draw. Coach Adi Hütter will expect a strong response this weekend, and with the impressive Mika Biereth already scoring four goals in four Ligue 1 appearances, they should have enough firepower to break down Nantes.
Nantes
Nantes’ defeat to Stade Brestois (0:2) ended their four-match unbeaten run in Ligue 1, leaving them only just above the relegation play-off zone. Their attacking struggles have been evident in 2025, with just 8.34 xG created – the fifth-worst in the league. The return of Nicolas Pallois from suspension may help tighten their defence, but his lack of mobility could be exposed by Monaco’s pace in attack. Nantes have struggled against top teams this season and are likely to focus on damage limitation rather than taking the game to their hosts.
AS Monaco vs Nantes Prediction
Nantes managed a 2:2 draw in the reverse fixture, but Monaco dominated them at home last season (4:0). With superior attacking quality and a strong home record, Monaco are clear favourites to take all three points.
