Metz vs Rodez - Ligue 2

The Ligue 2 returns to the home ground on September 5, 2026, where Metz and Rodez will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Ahead of the first leg of the UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday, McInnes said: "I said that when I spoke to Lawrence.

Metz head into the contest positioned 6th in the Ligue 2 standings, while Rodez arrive sitting 11th. The hosts have struggled for consistency, LWDDD in their last five pointing to a win rate of 33.33%. Rodez have struggled to string results together away from home, L over their last five with a win rate of 33.33%. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. The Reds continue to retain an interest in the midfielder Manu Kone and left-back Lewis Hall, while one remaining high-profile departure this summer could come in the form of Marcus Rashford.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Metz and Rodez have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. A month before his death, he was also arrested in Arkansas on charges including possession of a controlled substance.

With I. Baldé leading the league's scoring charts at 5 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol speaks to the Manchester Evening News after turning down options elsewhere to commit his future to City.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. The weight of evidence points to Metz, and a 3-2 win for the hosts feels like the most probable outcome. With positions in the Ligue 2 table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.