Derby clash between third-placed Lille and title contenders Monaco will see the meanest defence in the league take on the second-best attack led by none other than Radamel Falcao. With les Gones keeping six successive clean sheets in the league, they certainly have reason to believe they can frustrate the Principality club.

Nine clean sheets in eleven games

Over the last few years, Lille have managed to establish themselves as one of France’s top clubs, with Rudi Garcia taking les Dogues to unimagined heights. Many believed that the team would struggled following the coach’s move to AS Roma, but experienced tactician Rene Girard has been doing just as well. Taking into account the lack of attacking potential in the squad, the former Montpellier boss opted for a more defensive style of play, and that has produced stunning results in the opening exchanges. Despite scoring just 13 goals in 11 games, Lille won no less than seven matches, climbing to the third position in the standings. It was some amazing defensive displays that allowed les Dogues to exceed expectations, with the back line conceding just four goals so far and keeping nine clean sheets. And while the back four has got to take most of the credit, defence-minded midfielder Balmont, Mavuba and Gueye also have got to be commended for all the hard work. Having kept four clean sheets in a row, Lille will be hoping for more of the same when they host high-flying Monaco, and I certainly wouldn’t be surprised if they stop Radamel Falcao from scoring.

Key defender Marko Basa returns from injury, but attacking midfielders Marvin Martin and Ryan Mendes continue to miss out.

Monaco out of Coupe de la Ligue

While the heavy summer recruitment was bound to pay off eventually, not too many people believed Monaco would be able to hit the ground running early on. However, the sheer individual quality of summer arrivals helped Claudio Ranieri’s side to a bright start to the league campaign, turning the Principality club into genuine title contenders. Monaco have suffered some slip-ups along the way, but they are still unbeaten in Ligue 1 and will be tied on points with leaders PSG if they happen to win in Lille. That is going to be a very difficult task given that les Dogues haven’t conceded a single goal in last six games, especially as the visitors are low on confidence following the Coupe de la Ligue defeat to Reims. Even if a number of starters was rested in midweek, the defeat should have a negative effect on team spirit, so I have serious doubts as to whether Monaco have got what it takes to end a four-match winless run on the road. It appears as though Claudio Ranieri’s side are going through a first rough patch of the season and they will struggle to break their rock-solid opponents.

There are no fresh selection worries for Ranieri, although Nabil Dirar and Nacer Barazite remain long-term casualties.

Verdict

With les Dogues already several points clear of their top 3 rivals and their back line in perfect working order, they are likely to play a waiting game and focus all their efforts on defence. Meanwhile, Monaco largely struggle on the travels and the lack of confidence could also prove to be a major issue.

Top pick: Half-time draw   2.05 (21/20) @ Stan James

Alternative pick 1: Under 1.5 goals   3.10 (21/10) @ Sportingbet

Alternative pick 2: Monaco not to score   3.30 (23/10) @ Paddy Power