Ligue 1 August 22 Preview: Marseille vs Strasbourg & Lens vs Auxerre | Predictions and Score Tips

The 2026/27 Ligue 1 season gets underway with two interesting fixtures as Marseille host Strasbourg at the Orange Vélodrome, while Lens begin their league campaign at home against Auxerre.

Both Marseille and Lens enter these fixtures as favourites, but opening-week matches can be unpredictable, particularly with several clubs adjusting to new squads and tactical systems.

Marseille vs Strasbourg: OM Target a Winning Start

Marseille begin their new Ligue 1 campaign at home against Strasbourg, with expectations once again high at the Vélodrome.

OM enjoyed a positive pre-season and possess enough attacking quality to cause Strasbourg problems, particularly when they can control possession and attack quickly from wide areas.

Igor Paixão could have an important role following the changes to Marseille's attacking department. After spending a full season adapting to French football, the Brazilian will be expected to provide more goals and creativity this campaign.

Strasbourg, however, should not be underestimated. They finished seventh last season and have shown that they can trouble stronger opponents with their pace and quick transitions.

Recent meetings also suggest this may not be straightforward for Marseille. Their February meeting at the Vélodrome ended 2-2, while draws have been common in this fixture in recent seasons.

Marseille midfielder Quinten Timber is suspended, while Strasbourg have injury concerns involving Ben Chilwell and Joaquín Panichelli.

Prediction: Marseille to win

Score Tip: Marseille 2-1 Strasbourg

Lens vs Auxerre: Super Cup Winners Carry Strong Momentum

Lens enter their Ligue 1 opener with confidence after an excellent 2025/26 campaign in which they finished second in the league.

More importantly, their competitive form has already been tested this season.

Lens defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the Trophée des Champions on August 16, with Florian Thauvin scoring the decisive goal as they lifted the trophy.

That result should provide a major confidence boost ahead of their home meeting with Auxerre.

Lens are particularly difficult to face at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, where their pressing, intensity and home support can put visiting teams under considerable pressure.

Auxerre may look to remain compact and attack on the counter, but surviving Lens' early pressure could be crucial to their chances of taking anything from the game.

Considering Lens' home advantage and the momentum generated by beating PSG, they look the stronger option.

Prediction: Lens to win

Score Tip: Lens 2-0 Auxerre

Final Verdict

Of the two matches, Lens appear to be the safer pick based on current form. Their 1-0 victory over PSG in the Trophée des Champions provides strong evidence that they are already operating at competitive intensity.

Marseille should also have the quality to take three points at home, although Strasbourg's counter-attacking threat and recent record in this fixture could make it a tighter contest.