Rodez vs Le Mans Prediction & Betting Tips (16 January)

After a lackluster first part of the season, Rodez is quietly vegetating in the soft underbelly of the rankings. Currently 12th, Raf seems fairly well on its way to retaining its place in Ligue 2 because it has a nice lead of 6 points over the play-off before the start of this 19th day, which allows it to see it coming. Undefeated in the league since November 7, the Ruthenois ended the year 2025 with 2 draws obtained against Dunkirk 1-1 and Troyes 1-1 before winning against Guingamp 2-1. For their recovery, the Aveyronnais had to be content with a new sharing of points against Pau 3-3 15 days ago. On the other hand, what this team from Le Mans achieves commands admiration. Despite their status and a fairly limited workforce, the promoted players are nevertheless well established in the 1st part of the ranking, in 5th place in this Ligue 2, with only a small length behind 2nd place.

Something to dream of perhaps making a second successive climb and moving up to the elite. In addition to that, Patrick Videira's men have not suffered defeat for 4 months, or 13 days. Winners in December of Amiens 1-0 and Annecy 1-2, the Sarthois were able to hold off Saint-Etienne 0-0 on the last day. Last weekend, the Manceaux hosted Nancy in the Coupe de France.

Raf should play this game without the usual starting midfielder Trouillet, replacement midfielder Ponti and rookie Tebily who are out of form at the moment. In addition, replacement striker Baaloudj will be suspended after being sent off seconds after coming on against Pau. Arriving during the season in Rodez, experienced midfielder Tait already packed his bags last week. Offensively, striker Arconte (3 goals) hasn't scored in months.

The interesting Nagera (2 goals, 2 assists), the supersub Baldé (5 goals) and the midfielder Benchamma (3 goals) should on the other hand be available. Defenders Evan's (5 assists) and Galves (3 assists) are also important in this formation.