Lille vs Reims: Ligue 1 Prediction (18.05.2025)

On 18 May 2025 at 2:00 WIB, the final round of the French Ligue 1 season will feature a crucial match between Lille and Reims at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Lille. The outcome is significant for both teams. Let’s analyze their current form and give our prediction.

Lille

The “Dogs” effectively bowed out of the race for second place after losing 2-0 to Brest in the previous round. They enter the last matchday in 5th place with 57 points, tied with Nice (4th) and close to Strasbourg (6th). These teams are separated only by goal difference. Under Bruno Génésio, Lille can no longer reach the top 3 but can still fight for 4th place, which secures qualification for the Champions League playoffs. However, a defeat could leave Lille outside of European competitions altogether, as 7th placed Lyon is just 3 points behind and holds a better goal difference.

Reims

For the “Red and Whites,” this match is equally critical. They are currently 14th in the table, just 2 points clear of 16th place, and only 3 points ahead of 17th placed Saint-Étienne. Reims is safe from direct relegation due to a significant goal difference gap but still faces the risk of relegation playoffs. Unlike Lille, a draw would be enough for Reims to maintain their Ligue 1 status next season.

Head-to-Head Stats

The last five meetings have been balanced: 2 wins each and 1 draw. Lille won the last two encounters, including a 1-0 away victory at the end of last season and a 2-0 away win earlier this season.

Prediction

For the Lille vs Reims match, we expect a low-scoring game. Only 1 out of the last 5 matches between these sides saw more than 2 goals.

The high stakes for both teams will likely make them cautious. If Lille scores first, a high-scoring game is unlikely. We recommend betting on Under 3 total goals at odds of 1.68 for a balanced risk/reward.