Le Mans, currently positioned 3rd in the league, will host Saint-Étienne, who are 2nd, in this France Ligue 2 match. Le Mans's season record stands at 8 wins, 6 draws, and 3 losses. At home, Le Mans has achieved 5 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, scoring 8 goals and conceding 5, resulting in an average of 0.89 goals scored and 0.56 goals conceded per home game. Saint-Étienne's season record includes 9 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses. On their travels, Saint-Étienne boasts a record of 5 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses, with 13 goals scored and 13 conceded, averaging 1.44 goals scored and 1.44 goals conceded per away game. Looking at recent form, Le Mans has scored 22 goals and conceded 17 in their last 10 matches, with 8 wins, 6 draws, and 3 losses. Saint-Étienne has been prolific in their last 10 games, scoring 35 goals and conceding 25, with 9 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses. Based on the performances of Le Mans and Saint-Étienne this season, coupled with their recent form, I believe the teams are closely matched. The teams are separated by a mere point in the standings. Le Mans demonstrates solid home defence, conceding an average of only 0.56 goals per game, and are on a stable run of form being unbeaten in the last 6 matches. Saint-Étienne has a strong away attack, averaging 1.44 goals per game, but with defensive vulnerabilities. Considering Le Mans's home advantage and defensive solidity and Saint-Étienne's attacking prowess, I anticipate a closely contested match. A narrow victory for the home side or a draw is expected. I recommend a scoreline of 1-1 or 2-1.