Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
Le Havre
Le Havre have won only once, against OGC Nice (3:1), and have suffered three defeats over the first four matches. Even so, they have shown encouraging signs: they have scored five goals and averaged 1.42 xG per match. Moreover, the hosts have faced tough opponents: AS Monaco (1:3), RC Strasbourg Alsace (0:1) and OGC Nice all finished in the top seven last season. Their defending has been the issue, yet Le Havre have made only seven errors leading to goals across four matches.
Lorient
Lorient opened the campaign against AJ Auxerre (0:1), a narrow defeat in which they did not play badly. Then came a 4:0 win over Stade Rennais, aided by two dismissals for the opposition by the 11th minute. However, two heavy defeats followed — against LOSC Lille (1:7) and Olympique de Marseille (0:4). That dropped the team to 16th in the standings with 5 scored and 12 conceded (goal difference -7), the worst record in Ligue 1.
Le Havre vs Lorient Prediction
Two seasons ago, these fixtures were open, with Le Havre unbeaten (3:3, 3:0). Lorient are in a worse position now, and it will be difficult for them to take anything from this game. The hosts should take something here and play on the front foot.
