This Saturday, ASSE welcomes Montpellier to Geoffroy-Guichard for a crucial meeting in the fight for maintenance. With only 10 points in 11 matches, the Greens, currently 16th in Ligue 1, must take points to get out of the red zone. Opposite, Montpellier, bottom red with 7 points, also arrives in search of redemption. The Greens are finding executives this weekend.
The international break allowed both teams to prepare for this clash in relative serenity. However, the absences of several internationals forced Olivier Dall'Oglio to adapt his training sessions. For example, he was not able to work on his future central pair in defense without Dylan Batubinsika. In the hot seat with a contract ending next June, the Saint-Etienne coach is playing big against his former club. A victory could give his team some breathing room and consolidate its position.
Feedback that always feels good
On the ASSE side, the good news comes from the feedback from several key elements. Dylan Batubinsika, scorer with the Congo selection, should be aligned in central defense. In attack, Zuriko Davitashvili, substitute in Georgia's last two matches, but valuable off the bench, will be a major asset to energize the Greens' offensive sector.
Among the youngsters, Mathis Amougou and Ayman Aiki gained experience with the French team in their respective categories, while Lucas Stassin, established with the Belgian hopefuls, continued his progress despite the elimination of his team. Stassin hopes to unlock his counter this weekend and could be a strong option against a crumbly Montpellier defense.
A turning point for ASSE
For Olivier Dall'Oglio and his group, this match looks like a turning point. A victory would allow the Stéphanois to widen the gap with Montpellier and regain confidence for the rest of the season. But be careful, the MHSC, with its back to the wall, will come with the intention of striking a blow in the Cauldron.
See you at 7 p.m. for a tense duel between two historic clubs who must raise their heads.
