Laval – Metz

Laval host a struggling Metz side that sit sixth with nine points from six games, having scored eight and conceded five. The home team sit 18th, perched on just four points after one win, one draw and four defeats, with a goal‑difference of minus six (seven for, 13 against). Metz will look to build on their solid defensive record and climb higher in the table, while Laval will need to turn their meagre tally of one victory into something more urgent if they hope to avoid the relegation zone. Their head‑to‑head this season has offered little comfort to the hosts, as the visitors have already shown they can grind out results against lower‑ranked opposition. Both sides know the points are vital, and the clash promises to be a decisive test for each campaign.