Matchday 3 of Ligue 1 kicks off with a crucial clash between two sides looking to find their footing early in the season. Lens welcome Brest to the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Friday night, with both teams under pressure to deliver after inconsistent starts. Let’s break down the form, key players, and betting edge for this encounter.
Match Preview
After a narrow 0-1 loss to Lyon on opening day, Lens bounced back with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Le Havre. That result helped them climb to 10th in the table and gave the squad a much-needed confidence boost.
However, their home form remains a lingering concern. Lens have lost 7 of their last 11 Ligue 1 matches at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, and defensive lapses continue to make things difficult. Still, with a fast-paced, pressing style of play and key creators like Florian Thauvin and Wesley Saïd, the hosts remain dangerous in transition and capable of taking control early.
Brest have yet to find their rhythm this season. After a 1-1 draw in their opener, they slumped to a 0-2 defeat away to Toulouse—highlighting problems at both ends of the pitch. With just one goal scored and five conceded in two games, manager Eric Roy will be desperate to tighten the backline and spark some attacking life into his squad.
Del Castillo and Balde offer moments of creativity and pace, especially on the counter, but the team lacks cohesion and discipline—traits they’ll need in abundance if they’re to leave Lens with points.
Lens vs Brest Head-to-Head (Key Match Stats)
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Lens have won 5 of their last 6 meetings against Brest (Ligue 1 & 2)
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Brest have conceded 2+ goals in 6 of their last 8 league matches
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Lens have won 3 straight home games vs Brest in all competitions
Lens vs Brest Lineups (Probable)
Lens: Risser; Gradit, Sarr, Yudol; Aguilar, Thomasson, Sylla, Machado; Thauvin, Said, Fofana
Brest: Maetzki; Loko, Le Cardinal, Chardonnet, Lala; Magnetti, Le-Melou, Doumbia; Ajorque, Balde, Del Castillo
Lens vs Brest Prediction and Betting Tip
Lens have dominated this fixture in recent seasons and will be motivated to build momentum after a shaky start. Brest, meanwhile, look unconvincing at both ends of the pitch and face an uphill battle away from home.
Best Bet: Lens to Win
Odds: 2.01
