Pau FC vs Dunkerque Prediction & Betting Tips (24 October)

Pau FC enters their Ligue 2 clash against Dunkerque on October 24 riding a wave of solid form. The team has shown resilience in recent fixtures, including a 3-1 win over Clermont and a gritty 1-0 victory against Laval. Coach Didier Tholot has leaned heavily on the experience of striker Rachid Alioui and midfielder Quentin Boisgard, whose creativity and work rate have been instrumental in Pau’s midfield dominance. At the back, Xavier Kouassi continues to marshal the defense with authority, helping Pau maintain a competitive edge. The Nouste Camp will host this encounter, and Pau’s home record this season has been commendable, making them slight favorites heading into the weekend.

Dunkerque, meanwhile, has had a more turbulent journey through the early stages of the 2025/26 Ligue 2 campaign. Despite a standout 6-2 demolition of Amiens, inconsistency has plagued their performances. Coach Luis Castro has been experimenting with formations, often switching between a 4-3-3 and a more compact 4-2-3-1 to stabilize the midfield. Forward Malik Tchokounté remains a key figure in attack, while defender Vitor Sasso has emerged as a reliable presence in the backline. Dunkerque’s recent 0-0 draw against Bastia and a narrow 2-1 loss to Guingamp suggest a team still searching for rhythm, though their away form has shown flashes of promise.

Historically, encounters between Pau and Dunkerque have been tightly contested. In their last five meetings, Dunkerque has edged Pau with three wins, one draw, and one loss. However, Pau’s recent uptick in form and tactical discipline under Tholot could tilt the balance this time. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Pau’s pressing style likely to challenge Dunkerque’s build-up play. Both teams have shown vulnerability in transition, which could lead to an open game with chances on both ends. The tactical chess match between Tholot and Castro will be one to watch, especially as both managers look to solidify their mid-table positions.

Given the current trajectory of both squads and their recent performances, a narrow win for Pau FC seems plausible. Their home advantage, coupled with a more cohesive midfield and sharper finishing, gives them the edge. Dunkerque’s defensive lapses and inconsistent form away from home could be their undoing. While the visitors are capable of finding the net, Pau’s ability to control tempo and exploit spaces should see them through. Our prediction for this Ligue 2 fixture is a 2-1 victory for Pau FC, a scoreline that reflects both teams’ attacking intent and defensive frailties.