Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
Metz have already come through one qualification match to reach this stage. Stade de Reims, on the other hand, find themselves in the relegation play-off after a disappointing end to the season and will be determined to reassert their top-flight credentials against a lower-league opponent.
Metz
Their frustration is understandable given how their campaign unravelled late on. Up to Matchday 34, Stade de Reims had managed to stay clear of the relegation zone, but the final round pitted them against Lille, who were still in the hunt for a European place. A draw would have been enough, but they failed to secure even that. In truth, their downfall came earlier, with a costly 2:0 home defeat to relegation rivals Saint-Étienne. That result not only boosted Saint-Étienne’s own survival hopes but also pulled Stade de Reims into danger. Thankfully for them, there is still a way to retain their Ligue 1 status.
Stade de Reims
While it may seem a straightforward task for a Ligue 1 club to handle a Ligue 2 opponent, recent history suggests otherwise. Metz were in this exact position last season and fell short against AS Saint-Étienne, who were then chasing promotion — losing 2:1 away and drawing 2:2 at home. The decisive blow came in the second period of extra time in the second leg. In fact, in the last two editions of the play-offs, neither side had a clear aggregate advantage. In 2021, the now-defunct away goals rule was the deciding factor.
Metz vs Stade de Reims Prediction
With that in mind, we are likely in for another tight encounter. Playing at home gives Metz a solid platform, and at the very least they should be able to avoid defeat. We’ll take it a step further and back the hosts with a zero handicap.
