The 18th round of Ligue 2 features an intriguing clash between Pau FC and Rodez AF, scheduled for Saturday evening at the Nouste Camp. Both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in recent weeks, making this encounter particularly interesting for fans and bettors alike. Pau, once firmly positioned in the top five, have seen their momentum slow down, while Rodez arrive in better form and with growing confidence. With both sides eager to start 2026 on a positive note, this fixture promises intensity and determination from the first whistle.

Pau FC’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Pau FC have endured a difficult spell in Ligue 2, managing just one victory in their last eight league outings. Their most recent defeat came against Amiens SC (1-2) on December 12, 2025, a result that highlighted their current inconsistency. Despite this, the team remains competitive, sitting 7th in the standings with a record of 7 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses. Over the course of the season, Pau have averaged 1.4 goals scored and 1.5 goals conceded per match, suggesting a balance between attack and defense that has not always translated into consistent results.

In their last five matches, Pau have recorded 2 wins and 3 defeats, scoring an average of 1 goal per game while conceding the same amount. Their home form has been a key factor in maintaining a top-half position, but the recent dip in results has raised concerns. The team will look to their supporters at the Nouste Camp to help them rediscover their early-season rhythm and regain confidence after a challenging run.

• Ranking in Ligue 2: 7th place


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


• Average goals scored: 1.0 | Average goals conceded: 1.0


• Season record: W 7 · D 5 · L 5

Rodez AF’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Rodez AF approach this fixture in a much more positive mood. The visitors have been difficult to beat in recent weeks, remaining unbeaten in their last three Ligue 2 matches. Their latest success came in a 2-1 victory over Guingamp on December 12, 2025, a result that lifted them to 12th place in the table. Over the season, Rodez have collected 5 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses, averaging 1.1 goals scored and 1.4 goals conceded per game.

In their last five fixtures, Rodez have shown consistency with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat, scoring 1.4 goals per match while conceding just 1.0. Their resilience has been a defining trait, as they have managed to find the net in nearly every recent outing. However, defensive lapses remain an issue — they have conceded at least one goal in each of their last 14 matches. Interestingly, their games tend to open up after the break, with over 0.5 goals scored in the second half of their last 15 matches in all competitions.

• Ranking in Ligue 2: 12th place


• Last 5 matches: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 defeat


• Average goals scored: 1.4 | Average goals conceded: 1.0


• Over 1.5 goals in the last 11 Ligue 2 matches


• At least 1 goal conceded in the last 12 Ligue 2 games

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

When it comes to previous meetings, Rodez have generally had the upper hand. In their last five encounters, Pau have managed just one win, one draw, and three defeats, averaging 1.0 goal scored and 2.2 conceded per match. The most recent head-to-head ended in a 1-2 victory for Rodez on September 26, 2025, a result that will give the visitors confidence heading into this clash.

Both teams tend to produce open games, with Rodez’s recent fixtures consistently featuring goals in the second half. Pau, meanwhile, will aim to tighten up defensively while rediscovering their attacking sharpness. Given the current form and statistical trends, this match could see both sides finding the net, especially considering that Both Teams To Score has been a frequent outcome in their recent games.

For Pau, the key will be to regain control in midfield and capitalize on home advantage, while Rodez will rely on their solid collective play and ability to strike on the counter. The balance of power appears slightly tilted toward the visitors’ momentum, but Pau’s determination to bounce back could make this a tightly contested affair.

Pau FC vs Rodez AF Prediction and Final Analysis

All signs point to a competitive and entertaining match at the Nouste Camp. Pau’s recent struggles contrast with Rodez’s steady improvement, and the visitors’ ability to remain unbeaten in their last three league games suggests they will not be easy to overcome. The hosts, however, will be desperate to start the new year with a strong performance in front of their fans.

Statistically, the game leans toward goals: Over 2.5 goals has occurred in 55% of Rodez’s recent Ligue 2 matches, while Both Teams To Score – Yes has a 58% probability. Pau’s defensive vulnerabilities and Rodez’s attacking consistency could combine to produce another lively encounter.

Pau FC vs Rodez AF prediction by BetMines:
Over 2.5 goals with 55% probability.