Strasbourg vs Metz Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

On Sunday, Strasbourg will host Metz at Stade de la Meinau in their first Ligue 1 clash of 2026. Both teams are in search of their inaugural league victory this year. In their previous outings, Strasbourg faced Nice and ended in a 1-1 draw, while Metz had a similar fate against Lorient.

Match Preview

Strasbourg is still adapting to new management under Gary O’Neil. Since his appointment, the team has yet to lose. O’Neil achieved his first win as Strasbourg’s coach last week, securing a resounding 6-0 victory against Avranches in the Coupe de France. Now, he aims for his first Ligue 1 win to break a five-match winless streak.

Strasbourg has struggled recently at home, failing to secure points in their last two Ligue 1 matches. They are facing the potential of going winless at Stade de la Meinau in three consecutive home games—a situation not seen since a four-match losing streak from February to March 2024. Currently, they sit six points behind the European qualification spots.

Head-to-Head History

Historically, Strasbourg has performed well against Metz. They are unbeaten in the previous seven Ligue 1 encounters, winning the last six matches against their Lorraine rivals.

Metz’s Struggles

Metz has had a tumultuous season, often hampering their chances. The team has drawn four times in Ligue 1 after taking the lead, resulting in a drop of ten points this way. They have yet to earn a point in any away matches this season against top-half teams, following a significant defeat to Lille earlier this year.

In their last three away games, Metz has been defensively vulnerable, conceding seven goals. Overall, they have the league’s highest goals conceded tally, with 38, including multiple high-scoring losses.

Team News and Injuries

Strasbourg’s squad could miss several key players on match day. Emanuel Emegha and Tidiane Diallo are doubtful due to injuries. Ismael Doukoure’s availability is uncertain, while Saidou Sow’s recovery from a cruciate ligament tear continues. Maxi Oyedele is also questionable because of a muscle strain.

In contrast, Metz is likely to be without Pape Sy due to a head injury. Joseph Mangondo is dealing with a knee issue, and Koffi Kouao is suspended. Additionally, Habib Diallo and Cheikh Sabaly are participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Potential Lineups

• Strasbourg Possible Starting XI: Penders; Hogsberg, Omobamidele, Chilwell; Ouattara, El Mourabet, Barco, Amougou; Enciso, Panichelli, Amo-Ameyaw
• Metz Possible Starting XI: Fischer; Stambouli, Colin, S. Sane, Mboula; Deminguet, Traore; Mbaye, Hein, Tsitaishvili; I. Sane

Predictions

Based on current form and squad stability, we predict Strasbourg will emerge victorious, possibly winning 2-0 against Metz. Strasbourg’s consistency and attacking prowess may exploit Metz’s shaky defense.