Lens v Troyes

Lens have the opportunity to go temporarily top of Ligue 1 on Friday but need to overcome Troyes at home. Franck Haise’s side have been impressive this season, winning four of their six fixtures, including all of their three home games. Last weekend, they drew 1-1 at Reims, despite having Deiver Machado sent off around the hour match.

For the visit of Troyes, they will have close to a full squad of players available, including summer signing Adam Buksa, who is coming back after a broken ankle. Wesley Said is the only man of note to miss this game and, crucially, Seko Fofana is among those set to return to the squad. He provides a huge volume of play as well as added quality going forward.

Lens have been impressive offensively in any case. Their three home matches have seen them score 10 goals, and though they have conceded five in this time, they are a team with an attacking mindset.

Similarly, Troyes are a side transformed from the dour outfit of last season. Their three away matches have produced a total of 16 goals, and after losing to Montpellier and Lyon, they recovered in their last away trip to beat Monaco 4-2. 

It is tempting to back a home win and over 2.5 goals, but with the visiting side undefeated in three, including that 4-2 win at Stade Louis II, the safer option is just backing an entertaining match full of goals. Last season, Lens won 4-0 at home and 3-1 away against Troyes.