Jamel Saihi (Montpellier)
| PROBABLE LINEUPS |
MONTPELLIER  Jourdren Bocaly, Yanga-Mbiwa, Hilton, Bedimo Saihi, Estrada Ait Fana, Belhanda, Utaka Giroud | FC SOCHAUX MONTBELIARD  Richert Corchia, Poujol, Yaya, Sauget Lopy, Nogueira Boudebouz, Martin, CamaraMaiga |
Marco Estrada is expected to be named among the starting XI after appearing as a substitute two weeks ago, with Joris Marveaux expected to make way. Olivier Giroud, linked with various clubs this week, will lead the line in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Meanwhile, Sochaux are sweating on the fitness of goalkeeper Teddy Richert who sustained an eye injury last week. The veteran les Lionceaux captain is subject to a late fitness test, with 19-year-old Papa Demba Camara standing by in goal.
Last week's goalscorer Modibo Maiga appears to be prefereed to Edouard Butin in the lone striker role, as Eric Hely's men seek victory that could boost their survival chances.
| DID YOU KNOW? |
Montpellier are leading the Ligue 1 table, with 60 points from 29 games.
- La Paillade have won their previous six home matches without conceding a goal.
- Rene Girard's men have dropped only five points at Stade de la Mosson this season.
- Sochaux have won three of their last four fixtures under new boss Eric Hely.
- Les Lionceaux have only won one of their last five encounters against Montpellier.
- Saturday's visitors are 19th in the table, with 27 points.
The Ligue 1 leaders are huge favourites for this tie, and with a two-week rest set to invigorate their side rather than disadvantage them, it is hard to see a resurgent Sochaux claim all three points when there is so much at stake. A comfortable win for the hosts looks to be the most likely outcome.
Editor's Prediction
Montpellier Herault SC 2-0 Sochaux 
