On Matchday 22 of Ligue 1, Paulo Fonseca's Olympique Lyon visits Montpellier, currently sitting at the bottom of the table with just 15 points. The former AC Milan coach, who took charge at Lyon in late January to push for a European qualification, has a strong chance to secure his second consecutive win after the 4-0 triumph against Reims last week. A victory at Stade de la Mosson could see Lyon overtake Lille and close the gap on third and fourth-placed Monaco and Nice. Meanwhile, Montpellier, coming off two straight league defeats, faces a crucial moment in its season. A loss could leave them nine points adrift from safety, while a win would reignite their survival hopes. This match is, therefore, vital for both teams, with determination and motivation likely to be key factors in deciding the outcome.

Montpellier's shape and key statistics

Montpellier briefly showed signs of resurgence with two consecutive wins in January, but has since slipped back into poor form, as evidenced by their recent 2-0 defeats to Lens and Strasbourg. Across their last 10 matches in all competitions, Montpellier has recorded 2 wins, 2 draws, and 6 losses.

One of Gasset's biggest issues remains his defense, which is the weakest in Ligue 1, having conceded 48 goals (2.28 per match). However, home advantage could play a role, as 12 of their 15 total points have come at Stade de la Mosson.

Olympique Lyon's shape and key statistics

Lyon arrives in Montpellier full of confidence after their 4-0 win over Reims and is eager to build a winning streak that would push them into Champions League contention. However, Fonseca’s side must improve their away form, which has been disappointing recently.

Lyon has not won any of their last 5 away matches across all competitions (3 draws, 2 losses), with their last victory on the road dating back to December 7 (3-0 vs Angers). A promising stat for Lyon, however, is that they have scored in their last 9 Ligue 1 away matches.

Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon Prediction and Tactical Overview

Lyon showcased an impressive performance against Reims, playing an attacking style under Fonseca’s 4-2-3-1 formation. This game is crucial for their European ambitions, and they cannot afford to drop points.

Despite playing at home, Montpellier is unlikely to secure even a draw against this in-form Lyon side, led by Corentin Tolisso, who has scored in each of his last three matches. The head-to-head record also favors Lyon, with 4 wins in the last 5 encounters against Montpellier.

Based on these factors, the BetMines algorithm prediction for Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon strongly favors the visitors. 

• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon predicts the 1 at 19%
• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon predicts the X at 21%
• BetMines algorithm prediction for the match Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon predicts the 2 at 60%

Montpellier vs Olympique Lyon predicted lineups

MONTPELLIER (4-3-1-2): Lecomte; Tchato, Meite, Sagnan, Sainte-Luce; Chotard, Omeragic, Fayad; Savanier; Coulibaly, Delort. Coach: Gasset

OLYMPIQUE LYON (4-2-3-1): Perri; Kumbedi, Mata, Niakhate, Tagliafico; Matic, Tessmann; Cherki, Tolisso, Nuamah; Mikautadze. Coach: Fonseca