Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
This match comes at a perfect time for Marseille, as Lens are dealing with multiple setbacks, making life much easier for the hosts at the Vélodrome.
Marseille
Marseille have been in excellent form, avoiding defeat in their last seven matches (five wins, two draws). When they do win, they usually do so in style, scoring at least twice—notable victories include AS Monaco (2:1) and Olympique Lyonnais (3:2). Marseille are tougher to beat at home, as most teams tend to sit back against them. And even away from home, they have five wins in their last seven matches.
Lens
Just four matches ago, Lens were sixth in the table, only four points off the Champions League spots. Now, after four consecutive defeats, they have dropped to ninth, sitting six points adrift of the top six. Adding to their freefall, they face an injury crisis, with five key players ruled out, alongside four more suspended—an almost unheard-of situation. The biggest blow is the absence of top scorer M'Bala Nzola (7 goals), who picked up a straight red card two matches ago.
Marseille vs Lens Prediction
With so many key absentees, Lens will struggle to compete at the Vélodrome. Marseille are in fine form, and against a depleted opponent, they should have no trouble securing three points. Expect the hosts to score at least twice in a comfortable win.
