Le Mans vs St Etienne Prediction & Betting Tips (3 January)

There were probably not many followers who predicted the presence of Le Mans on the podium at the time of the winter break. And yet, the promoted players are indeed in contact with 3rd position in the ranking at the start of this return phase, with an excellent record of 30 points taken in 17 days. Consequently, Patrick Videira's men have practically already ensured their maintenance which was their main objective of the year and they can now approach the months to come without too much pressure. Undefeated since September 12 in all competitions, the Sarthois ended the year with 6 victories in a row. Winners of Pau 1-2, Amiens 1-0 and Annecy 1-2 in the league, the Manceaux were able to overcome Perigny 1-2 in the Coupe de France before the winter break.

Saint-Etienne, for its part, is on the 3rd step of the podium in this Ligue 2, tied on points with their opponent of the day but with a much greater goal difference. This is obviously not a surprise for this ASSE team which was announced as the number 1 candidate for promotion at the start of the season. Unfortunately for them, the Greens have let slip a lot of points along the way this fall like during the last 2 days against Dunkirk 1-0 and the bottom red Bastiaise 2-2. In the Cup, the Forez players also disappointed by losing against a Nice team that was decimated and morally at the bottom of the hole 2-1.

As at the end of last year, the defender on loan from Strasbourg Amadou Cissé, the young midfielder Gomes and the long-term injured midfielder Vercruysse will have to remain in the infirmary for this first match of 2026. The prolific striker Harhouz (4 goals), the left piston Calodat and the central defender Eyoum complete the list of absentees. Conversely, the Senegalese striker Gueye (5 goals, 2 assists) and the interesting Rabillard (3 goals) are well suited to holding their place.

Often left aside in recent months, striker Guillaume has found playing time in the cup but not sure if he will be called up for this meeting.

• Summary: Le Mans is going head to head with Saint-Étienne starting on 3 Jan 2026 at 19:00 UTC at Stade Marie-Marvingt stadium, Le Mans city, France. The match is a part of the Ligue 2 .
• Referee: Ahmed Taleb
• Le Mans Feedinco Rating: 6.80
• St Etienne Feedinco Rating: 6.86