Nantes vs Rodez - Ligue 2

The Ligue 2 returns to the home ground on August 22, 2026, where Nantes and Rodez will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Altrincham vs Manchester United U21s highlights and reaction from pre-season fixture.

A glance at the Ligue 2 table tells the story: Nantes in 17th and Rodez in 11th, with positions to defend and places to climb. Nantes are still searching for momentum, LWDLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 16.67%. 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. Rodri's future remains one of the major talking points as Barcelona step up interest in the World Cup winner.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Nantes may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Rodez have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. A month before his death, he was also arrested in Arkansas on charges including possession of a controlled substance.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman I. Baldé, whose 5 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. But with United in need of a new top central midfielder, an Express Sport poll of United supporters have voted for Tchouameni to be their next signing, with 32% respondents wanting the Frenchman to join.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. The numbers tilt towards Rodez, and a 1-2 away win looks the more probable outcome. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Ligue 2 standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. 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.