The 22nd round of Ligue 1 brings a crucial battle in the fight for survival as FC Metz host AJ Auxerre at the Stade Saint-Symphorien. Both sides are locked in the relegation zone, separated by just two points, and every match from now on could prove decisive. Metz remain bottom of the table but showed signs of improvement last weekend by holding Lille to a goalless draw, ending a run of three consecutive defeats. Auxerre, meanwhile, sit 16th and cling to the relegation play-off spot, but their recent form has been equally concerning, with no wins in six league outings. This encounter promises to be tense, tactical, and potentially low-scoring as both teams aim to avoid costly mistakes.

FC Metz: Fighting to Stay Alive

Metz have endured a difficult campaign, collecting just three wins, four draws, and fourteen defeats so far. Their attack has struggled, averaging only 1.0 goal per game, while conceding 2.2 on average. The draw against Lille (0-0) on February 6 offered a glimmer of hope, particularly in defense, where goalkeeper Jonathan Fischer impressed once again. Despite this, the Grenats remain winless in their last nine Ligue 1 matches and have often found themselves trailing early, losing at half time in seven of their last ten league fixtures.

At home, Metz have rarely managed to impose themselves. Only two of their last ten home matches have seen fewer than 0.5 total goals, highlighting their difficulty in breaking down opponents. Still, the team’s fighting spirit remains intact. Gauthier Hein, who has contributed six goals and four assists this season, will be eager to make an impact against his former club. Coach Benoît Tavenot must, however, cope with several absences: Jean-Philippe Gbamin is suspended, while Pape Sy and Joseph Mangondo remain injured. Benjamin Stambouli is also doubtful after picking up a knock against Lille.

• Last 5 matches: 0 wins, 1 draw, 4 defeats


• Average goals scored: 0.6 per match


• Average goals conceded: 2.4 per match


• Last head-to-head vs Auxerre: 1-3 defeat (December 2025)

With their defensive structure improving slightly and a renewed sense of urgency, Metz will look to capitalize on home advantage to close the gap on their direct rival.

AJ Auxerre: Holding on to the Play-Off Spot

Auxerre currently occupy 16th place with three wins, five draws, and thirteen defeats. Their recent performances have been characterized by solid defensive organization but a worrying lack of goals. The team has failed to score in its last five matches, including consecutive 0-0 draws against Toulouse and Paris FC. Over the last five games, Auxerre have averaged just 0.8 goals conceded per match but have yet to find the net themselves.

Coach Christophe Pélissier faces his own selection challenges, with Telli Siwe, Francisco Sierralta, Oussama El Azzouzi, and Danny Namaso all unavailable. Nevertheless, the visitors can rely on the creativity of Kévin Danois in midfield and the attacking presence of Lassine Sinayoko, who has scored six goals this season. Romain Faivre is still searching for his first goal since joining the club and will be eager to make a difference in this crucial fixture.

• Last 5 matches: 0 wins, 2 draws, 3 defeats


• Average goals scored: 0.0 per match


• Average goals conceded: 0.8 per match


• Under 0.5 goals: in the last 2 Ligue 1 matches

Auxerre’s main objective will be to avoid defeat and maintain their narrow advantage over Metz. Their defensive resilience could once again be key, especially against a home side struggling for attacking rhythm.

Metz vs Auxerre: Analysis and Prediction

This match has all the ingredients of a tense relegation battle. Both Metz and Auxerre are desperate for points but lack confidence in front of goal. Their recent head-to-head record also favors a cautious outlook: Metz have failed to win any of their last five meetings with Auxerre, scoring only 0.2 goals per game on average while conceding 1.8. With both teams prioritizing defensive solidity and avoiding early mistakes, a low-scoring encounter seems highly likely.

Given the data and recent performances, the most probable scenario is a tight, tactical contest where neither side takes excessive risks. A draw would not be a disastrous result for either, especially as it would keep them both in contention for the play-off spot. Expect a slow start and few clear chances, particularly in the first half.

Metz vs Auxerre prediction by BetMines:
Under 2.5 goals with 55% probability.