Ligue 2

Ligue 2 is the second division of French football. The top two are promoted directly to Ligue 1 and another place is decided in a play-off against a top-flight team, while the bottom teams are relegated to the National.

It is a development league par excellence: many young players make their name here before moving up to Ligue 1 or other European leagues. Matches tend to be physical, with tight scores. That is why recent form and home or away performance are more reliable indicators than each club's reputation.