Clermont vs Grenoble Prediction & Betting Tips (22 August)

Clermont Foot and Grenoble Foot 38 are set to clash on August 22, 2025, at Stade Gabriel-Montpied in what promises to be a tightly contested Ligue 2 encounter. Both sides enter the match with fresh slates, as the season is just beginning, but recent form and squad dynamics suggest Clermont may have the edge. Clermont’s last five matches include a solid win over Annecy and a draw against Red Star, showcasing their defensive resilience and midfield control. Head coach Pascal Gastien has retained his core tactical setup, relying on the experience of players like Alivereti Raka and Anthony Belleau to drive attacking transitions. With Clermont historically dominant at home, they’ll be keen to start strong.

Grenoble, meanwhile, have had a more turbulent run-in. Losses to Troyes and Annecy in May exposed defensive frailties, particularly in wide areas. Coach Vincent Hognon has been experimenting with a 4-2-3-1 formation, hoping to stabilize the back line while giving creative freedom to midfielders like Jessy Benet and Théo Valls. Ayoub Jabbari remains their most potent goal threat, having netted three times in the latter half of last season. However, Grenoble’s away form has been patchy, and their last visit to Clermont ended in a 3-0 defeat, a memory that may linger.

The tactical battle will likely hinge on midfield control. Clermont’s pressing game, led by energetic midfielders like Enzo Sanga and Baptiste Jauneau, could disrupt Grenoble’s build-up play. Expect Clermont to exploit set pieces and wide channels, especially with the pace of Lucas Tauzin and the aerial presence of Folau Fainga'a. Grenoble will need to counter swiftly, relying on Junior Olaïtan’s dribbling and Delos’ overlapping runs to stretch Clermont’s defense. Discipline will be key—Grenoble’s Gaëtan Paquiez, who picked up seven yellow cards last season, must tread carefully.

Given the context and recent performances, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of Clermont feels both plausible and precise. Clermont’s home advantage, coupled with their more cohesive squad and tactical clarity, should see them edge past Grenoble. Expect a late goal to seal the win, possibly from a substitute like Pierre Fouyssac or a set-piece conversion. Grenoble will likely find the net through a moment of individual brilliance, but not enough to overturn Clermont’s momentum.