Reims have seen under 2.5 goals in their last 4 home matches against Metz in all competitions. There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Reims's last 3 games (Ligue 1). Metz are undefeated in their last 5 matches against Reims in all competitions.
Reims are shaping up well this weekend. Capacities have been increased, Hugo Ekitike is back and there is excitement bubbling over the arrival of talented midfielder Jen Cajuste. Metz still have their most dangerous attackers available but they are otherwise depleted with absentees across the board. 1:0
Reims should make few changes to the side that drew against Clermont at the weekend. Record signing Jens Cajuste should make his debut here in midfield. Hugo Ekitike has drawn January interest from Newcastle but will start here after completing his suspension. Hard-hit by AFCON, Metz's makeshift side shouldn't look much different to the one that lost to Strasbourg last weekend. The club have reported that Jemerson has picked up a hamstring injury that could see him out until early February. Fabien Centonze remains a doubt through injury -- look for youngster William Mikelbrencis to get another start at right-back.