Reims vs PAU - Ligue 2

A fascinating Ligue 2 chapter awaits on May 9, 2026 when Reims take on PAU at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

Both Reims and PAU will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Ligue 2. The hosts have done enough without setting the world alight, W over their last five and a 50% win rate to their name. PAU have found wins elusive, L in their last five underscoring a win rate of 16.67%. The contrast in attacking output — 2.33 versus 0.67 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Reims will look to impose their style on home soil, while PAU are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. United are reportedly eyeing a move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago this summer.

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. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 2-2. With positions in the Ligue 2 table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.