Stade Brest vs Saint-Etienne Prediction: Saint Etienne have 0 chance

It's both Stade Brest and Saint-Etienne coming into this clash on the back of disappointing losses; Stade Brest fell 2-0 at RC Lens, whilst Saint-Etienne fell 2-0 at Le Havre. After having witnessed such results, the two teams will be desperate to find the rhythm again and gather precious points early in this season.

Indeed, the traditionally strong-at-home Stade Brest will particularly want to capitalize on that fact. The real worry, however, lies in their recent form, especially in front of the goal, with the important opportunities at stake not bearing results as yet.

Well, more often now, it's met with this highly defensive and realist approach by Stade Brest. They maintain a good shape and generally have a flat defense in most games using the 4-4-2 formation that enables them to express this. Consequently, this shape frustrates more possession-based sides by denying space in the midfield areas for their opponents out wide. On offensive means, Brest counts greatly on transitions and set pieces. Endowed with able striking options, they managed to be pretty good.

Saint-Étienne, who has had past experiences in French football, finds themselves in the rebuilding process. They've been hot and cold on the road this season but not really looking to impose their style—especially on the sides that are more defensive-minded, like Brest.

Saint-Etienne usually prefers a more dynamic 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 when most of the prime players make it to the field. They would want to manage the pace of the game and dominate it in midfield, making interchanges at quite a quick rate. However, their recent run of form indicates that they might want to be more careful against Brest—quite possibly going for a 4-4-2 to match Brest's shape and emphases on defensive solidity and getting a good counter-attacking opportunity.

The two have had their share of draws over the years, and the recent rivalry over a couple of years has also seen their clashes end in draws. The head-to-head makes a slight statement in favour of Saint-Etienne, but there isn't really much to discuss. Brest's home support has been an edge to them in several of these encounters.

On current form and both teams' tactical set-ups, this really should be a tight game. The home advantage of Brest and the recent struggles of Saint-Etienne in breaking down well-organized defenses over the last few weeks make me think Brest may just edge this contest. Certainly, one cannot rule out a draw here. Quite easily, it could be won by just the odd goal, maybe from a set-play, where Brest has shown some ability.

In short, this is a low-scoring game, with just a little edge to Brest on home territory and in terms of tactical discipline. Saint-Etienne will have to be at their best defensively to take a point home.

• Brest Win or Draw and Over 1.5 Goals at 1.6 Odds
• Brest Win at 1.80 Odds
• Correct Score 2:0 at 8.00 Odds