Saint-Priest vs Valenciennes
Coupe de France
Wednesday
7th February 2024
Stade Pierre Rajon
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Coupe de France fixture between Saint-Priest and Valenciennes.
Saint-Priest vs Valenciennes: Preview
Saint-Priest form analysis
AS Saint-Priest put together a strong run of form over the past several weeks, with four wins and a draw across five league matches to rise up the table. It started with an emphatic 5-0 home thrashing of Vaulx with striker Essimi Ateba grabbing a brace. Next was a disappointing 2-1 loss away at Saint-Etienne II but Saint-Priest responded well. Back-to-back home wins followed, comfortably beating Chassieu 3-0 helped by another Essimi Ateba double before a clinical 2-0 victory away at Hauts Lyonnais through a Benhmida brace.
However, most recently back on home soil, Saint-Priest struggled as they were held to a 2-2 draw by mid-table Limonest. So while scoring goals has not been an issue, conceding cheaply has cost the manager’s men. At the back they have appeared vulnerable despite having talent like Benhmida. Bringing greater focus and organisation to their defensive play will be key. Balancing their exciting attack with upgrades at the back could make Saint-Priest a surprise package in the second half of the season if they find consistency.
Valenciennes form analysis
Valenciennes have experienced inconsistent league form over their past five matches. They started this run with a disappointing 2-1 defeat away at Ajaccio, despite Youngster Yacouba Haouari cancelling out Toure’s early opener for the hosts. This was followed by a frustrating 1-0 home loss against Amiens, conceding to an early Mafouta penalty. However, an impressive 3-1 home win over Bastia marked a turning point. Although falling behind early, a brace from striker Anthony Jung and Knockaert’s strike earned a vital three points.
Hopes of building momentum were dashed again though as Valenciennes fell to a 3-1 loss away at promotion-chasing Bordeaux. Most recently, a lacklustre 1-0 defeat away at Concarneau left the manager bitterly disappointed. While the results have fluctuated, Valenciennes have struggled on the road but shown promise at home. Transferring their Stade du Hainaut form out on their travels is now essential, starting at the back where they have conceded too freely away from home. Addressing these defensive frailties and improving mentality from the front could help transform fortunes.