With just five matches remaining in the campaign, both teams are still chasing a spot in the top five and a chance to compete in the promotion playoffs.

Bastia currently trails the playoff zone by seven points, while Laval sits slightly closer, five points behind. However, Laval faces a major setback heading into this match, with eight key players unavailable most notably their top scorer Tchokounté, who has contributed 9 goals and 1 assist this season.

Bastia, on the other hand, remains the only unbeaten team over the last 14 matches, recording 7 wins and 7 draws. They also boast the league’s best defensive record, having conceded just 8 goals during that stretch.