It is a true miracle how this squad still have the chance to survive. Last time they won at home was by the beginning of December last year. They are not doing much better away, with only two wins but thanks to Lens’ pathetic play they are still away from the relegation zone.
Elmander is the heart and soul of the team and absolutely everything depends on him. When he is inspired, Toulouse can hope for a point or two, but if he has a bad day, defeat is imminent.
That is what happened last week. Although they had the lead on halftime, Elmander was replaced because of his weak performance during the second half, and Rennes soon tuned the score over. They failed to take at least a point and now they must win.
They have no new injuries and they can field the same line-up as last few weeks.
Valenciennes had only one aim on the start, to secure their place as soon as possible. They succeeded in doing that a month or two ago, thanks to good home games. The difference between them playing at home and away is huge. They are usually pretty confident on home ground; 11 wins and only 4 losses. But when it comes to playing away they have only one win with even 12 defeats. When some other fans are on the stands defense seem insecure and make rooky mistakes that have cost them many points this season. They obviously lack self-confidence when they are without their supporters.
Last week they lost at home to Nice but it seems that they are not too motivated in the last few rounds. They secured their place in the league, and they didn’t try hard so they are not worried.
They are still playing without attacking tandem Audel-Puyol as well as without Belmadi.
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