St Etienne have the fourth fewest wins in Ligue 1 this season, and as they aim to move above the relegation zone, they will travel to Stade de l’Abbé-Deschamps to face Auxerre on Friday, January 24, 2025. Africa Football’s editor Bill Eshun looks into the upcoming clash.
Key Facts
• Auxerre have failed to win any of their last six league games.
• St Etienne have won just one of their last five games.
Auxerre have earned an unpleasant reputation for struggling to avoid relegation battles in their last two seasons in the top flight. With their recent poor form, such discussions are beginning to resurface—something they will be desperate to avoid.
Currently placed 11th in the league standings, Auxerre are just five points clear of the relegation zone. However, they can draw some confidence from having the fourth-best home record this season and will be facing a St Etienne side that has largely underperformed.
The visitors have the second-worst away record in the league, managing just a solitary point from nine matches on the road.
Key Matchup: Gideon Mensah vs Augustine Boakye
This game will feature a battle between a regular member of the Black Stars and a player yet to feature for the national team. However, the two share a common link: WAFA, a club that once competed in the Ghana Premier League.
Gideon Mensah, who has battled injuries earlier this season, is now fully fit and has made 13 league appearances, registering one assist in over 1,000 minutes of play.
Augustine Boakye, on the other hand, has been more clinical, scoring three goals in 11 matches. His most recent strike sent Ghanaian fans into raptures.
The Odds
Auxerre’s chances of victory are currently priced at 2.00 by 1xBet, while St Etienne’s odds stand at 3.88. The odds for a draw are also set at 3.88.
Prediction
St Etienne’s poor away form is highly concerning and gives Auxerre a significant advantage. Although the hosts have struggled recently, this match provides them with the perfect opportunity to return to winning ways.
Scoreline: Auxerre 2-1 St Etienne
