Le Mans enters the match in fantastic form: third in the table, seven matches unbeaten. They have won four of their last five matches, including a 4-0 rout of Pau and a comeback victory over Amiens (4-3). They are unbeaten at home for seven matches, and have kept clean sheets in four of their last five. Le Mans' attack (45 goals) is stable, and their defense is virtually impenetrable at home.
Clermont is in deep trouble: 14th place, with just 30 points, and five matches without a win. They have lost three and drawn two of their last five matches. Things are also bad on the road: they have lost more than half of their away matches. Clermont concedes an average of 1.6 goals per away match and looks completely unsure.
Comparing the teams, we see a colossal gap: 24 points and 11 places in the table. Le Mans is fighting for promotion to Ligue 1, while Clermont is fighting for survival. Given the hosts' home strength and the visitors' complete lack of success on the road, a Le Mans victory is the most logical outcome.
