We do not have confirmed lineups or formations from the brief, so we are working off the expected shape. Annecy, under their current setup, are likely to line up in a compact 4-2-3-1, sitting in a mid-block and looking to spring through the wide areas. The double pivot will screen the back four, while the attacking midfielder looks to find pockets between the lines. Rodez, after that 3-1 win, will likely stick with the same attacking 4-3-3, pushing full-backs high and relying on the front three to stretch the pitch.

The midfield battle will be the key battleground. Rodez will try to dominate the ball, but Annecy will be happy to let them have it. They will sit deep, absorb the pressure, and hit on the break. The wide areas are where this game will be won. Annecy's wingers will look to isolate Rodez's full-backs, who will be caught upfield. That is where the space will be. Expect a scrappy, physical contest in the middle, with second balls and set-pieces playing a huge role. Annecy are not a side that will blow you away with pretty football, but they are organised, disciplined, and dangerous from dead-ball situations.

Rodez will smell blood after their opening win, but they will find a stubborn opponent. The game state is likely to be tight, with few clear chances. A single moment of quality or a set-piece could decide it. That suits Annecy just fine.