The relegation battle
The bottom two will be relegated to Ligue 2, and the number 16 will play in the play-offs, with the winner of the play-offs in Ligue 2.
Montpellier
Montpellier is in deep trouble at the bottom of the Ligue 1 table, with just 9 points from 16 matches. Their defensive frailties are glaring, as they have conceded a staggering 39 goals—the worst in the league. The team has struggled to compete at this level, with only two wins in the entire season. If Montpellier hopes to avoid relegation, they must tighten their defence and find a way to turn their performances around quickly. Otherwise, their future lies in Ligue 2.
Le Havre
Sitting in 17th place with 12 points, Le Havre is also fighting to escape the relegation zone. Their primary issue lies in their lack of attacking threat, having scored just 12 goals—the lowest tally in the league. While their defence has shown some resilience compared to Montpellier’s, it hasn’t been enough to compensate for their struggles in front of goal. Le Havre must improve their offensive output to have any chance of survival in Ligue 1.
Nantes
Currently in 16th place with 15 points, Nantes are precariously close to the relegation zone. Inconsistency has been their Achilles’ heel, as they’ve struggled to maintain momentum throughout the season. With only three wins so far, their defence has also been shaky, conceding 25 goals. If Nantes wants to avoid relegation, they must find consistency and capitalise on upcoming fixtures.
Saint-Étienne
Saint-Étienne, sitting just above the relegation zone in 15th place with 16 points, is far from safe. With just one win in their last five matches, their form has been a major concern. Defensive issues have plagued them all season, and they have conceded 35 goals—the second-most in the league. If Saint-Étienne hopes to avoid dropping into Ligue 2, they must improve their defensive organisation and rediscover the winning mentality that once defined their club.
Angers SCO
Angers, also with 16 points, is in 14th place but not out of danger. Their attack has been underwhelming, scoring just 16 goals, while their defence has been porous, conceding 26. While they’ve shown flashes of improvement in recent weeks, Angers must string together consistent performances to distance themselves from the relegation battle. Any slip-ups in the coming fixtures could see them dragged further into the danger zone.
With five teams in danger, the relegation battle in Ligue 1 is shaping up to be a fierce contest. Each side must show grit and determination to secure its place in the top flight next season.