Troyes vs St Etienne tips and predictions

St Etienne to test Troyes mettle

St Etienne are coming into this one expecting to win. There's absolutely nothing wrong with backing them at this price. If they play their best stuff they can earn a hard-fought win after a thrilling ninety minutes.

The hosts are seeking to put some of their latest tepid showings out of sight. On their own turf Troyes's displays might turn out to be revealing. They've scored one or less goals in 5 of their last 6 games on their own turf which just won't get the job done here. In defence, Troyes's performances have at times lacked urgency. They conceded two or more goals in 8 of their last 14 matches so they are going to have to tidy things up before this one.

St Etienne have posted some high calibre displays. Their best stuff has been secured by the quality of their finishing. They've scored at least once in 11 of their last 13 away fixtures and if the hosts show any signs of nerves the visitors will make things pretty uncomfortable here. The away team will be motivated for this and if they can produce a result it will be richly deserved.

Few could argue with the notion that both sides can get in on the act as the teams are nicely matched. It's not a particulary strong view but the Yes BTTS bet could be interesting.

Troyes have only won once in the last 8 matches between the sides.

The hosts come off a discouraging 4-0 defeat earlier this month against Lens.