Nantes Vs Reims

This Sunday, FC Nantes will welcome Stade de Reims to Stade de la Beaujoire - Louis Fonteneau for a pivotal encounter in their fourth Ligue 1 match of the 2024-25 season. The fixture promises to be a significant test for both teams as they look to build momentum in the early stages of the campaign.

Current Form and Standings

As it stands, FC Nantes are enjoying a strong start to their Ligue 1 season, sitting in third place with seven points from their opening three matches. Their most recent outing saw them secure a convincing 3-1 victory over Montpellier HSC on August 31. In contrast, Reims, who are positioned 10th with four points, are coming off a narrow 2-1 win against Rennes on September 1.

Nantes' Recent Performances

FC Nantes' performance in their last match was a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline. Despite having only 31% possession against Montpellier, they managed to take a commanding lead, thanks to three well-taken goals. Their shooting accuracy was notable, with nine shots on goal, while Montpellier had ten attempts. In the second half, Nantes' possession dwindled to just 26%, yet they effectively utilized their counter-attacking opportunities.

The victory against Montpellier was particularly noteworthy given Nantes' relatively low non-penalty expected goals (xG) figure. They scored three times despite generating less than one non-penalty xG, demonstrating their clinical finishing and efficiency in front of goal. Defensively, Nantes were solid, denying Montpellier any significant scoring opportunities and preventing them from creating a single big chance.

Earlier in the season, on August 25, Nantes had a similarly low possession rate (35%) in their 2-0 win over Auxerre. However, they capitalized on their chances effectively, creating two big chances and converting them both. This ability to perform well despite limited possession has been a hallmark of Nantes' play this season.

Despite their strong start this season, Nantes ended the 2023-24 campaign in disappointing fashion, with three losses and two draws in their final five matches. This recent form is a concern, particularly given their struggles at home last season, where they lost their final ten competitive matches at Stade de la Beaujoire.

Manager Antoine Kombouaré's tactical approach has been to rely on counter-attacking strategies, a style that has paid dividends so far. Nantes are currently averaging the lowest possession figures among the 18 teams in Ligue 1, but their defensive solidity has ensured they have conceded the joint fewest goals per match.

Reims' Recent Performances

Stade de Reims come into this match buoyed by their recent victory against Rennes. In that match, Reims dominated possession with 53% and created four big chances, significantly outperforming Rennes in this regard. This performance suggests a more proactive approach in attack compared to their previous games.

Reims' previous Ligue 1 encounter on August 25 was a 2-2 draw against Marseille. Despite their defensive organization, they were unable to prevent Marseille from creating six big chances. Reims' own attacking efforts were limited, with only one big chance created. This imbalance between defensive solidity and attacking output is a point of concern for manager Luka Elsner.

Under Elsner's stewardship, Reims have had a mixed bag of results in recent Ligue 1 fixtures. In the last five matches, they have managed three wins, one draw, and one loss. This record indicates a team that is beginning to find its rhythm under the new management, but inconsistencies remain.

However, Reims have struggled on the road, failing to secure a win in their last six away matches in Ligue 1. Their record includes two losses and four draws. Furthermore, Reims have only won two of their last twelve league fixtures away from home, a statistic that highlights their difficulties in away games.

Antoine Kombouaré, the manager of FC Nantes, has demonstrated his ability to adapt and secure results with a counter-attacking strategy. Despite a challenging end to the previous season, Kombouaré's tactics this season have shown effectiveness, particularly in making the most of limited possession and maintaining a strong defensive record.

Luka Elsner, on the other hand, is still relatively new to his role at Reims. His tenure has been marked by an attempt to balance defensive solidity with attacking intent. While Elsner's approach has led to some positive results, the challenge remains to translate that into consistent performances, especially away from home.

The upcoming match between FC Nantes and Stade de Reims is set to be a crucial encounter for both sides. Nantes will look to build on their strong start to the season and overcome their home form issues from last year. Meanwhile, Reims will be eager to address their away struggles and build on their recent positive results.