Day 4 of the Judo Pro League promises to be one of the most crucial of the season. Indeed, this day will largely determine which teams make it into the Top 8, opening the doors to the quarter-finals next January. With the current standings full of suspense, some teams are in a strong position, while others are playing for their survival in this competition. Here are the key matches of the day, not to be missed.

Juniville Marnaval Grand Est takes on Judo Nice Métropole

Juniville, currently in 9th place and under pressure, takes on the undisputed leader: Judo Nice Métropole. Winners of the last edition and in fine form with three wins from three matches, Nice seem invincible. However, Juniville have already put in some fine performances this season, notably beating Flam 91. Building on this momentum, they could well spring a surprise against the favourites. The challenge is considerable, but the team is not lacking in resources.

Dojo Béglais vs Judo des Hauts-de-France 

In a bottom-of-the-table duel, Dojo Béglais (12th) hosts Judo des Hauts-de-France (11th). Despite their 11th-place finish, Judo des Hauts de France still have every chance of breaking into the top 8. To do so, they'll need to beat Bègles and await the results of the other teams. For the latter, the objective is clear: salvage their honor and fight to the bitter end to climb back up the rankings, although their chances of joining the Top 8 remain slim.

Dojo Nantais vs Montpellier Judo Olympic

Bottom of the table, the Dojo Nantais hosts Montpellier Judo Olympic, currently in 7th place. Montpellier have a golden opportunity to reach the quarter-finals after two seasons in which their hopes ended in the group stages. So far, their performances have been remarkable, demonstrating a steady rise to prominence. For their part, Nantes, without a win to date, will be fighting without pressure to try and spring a surprise.

Normandie Judo vs Flam 91 

Travelling to Normandy, Flam 91 is aiming for victory to climb even higher. Led by champion Shirine Boukli, Flam 91 will be keen to dominate Normandie Judo, and consolidate their place among the title contenders.

AM Asnières Judo 92 vs US Orléans Judo Loiret 

On Wednesday, Asnières (10th), accustomed to the final four, plays a decisive match against US Orléans Judo Loiret (4th). A win is imperative for the Asnières judokas if they are to maintain their ambitions and hope to move up to 8th place. For their part, the rising Orléans team are determined to prove that they can build on their strengths and aim even higher. A meeting that promises to be rich in intensity. 

Chilly-Mazarin Morangis vs SGS

The second derby of this edition will pit SGS Judo against JC Chilly-Mazarin Morangis. The pressure will be on for Chilly-Mazarin, whose 8th place is in jeopardy. A slip-up could cost them qualification for the quarter-finals. SGS, on the other hand, after losing to OM Judo, will be keen to regain their winning momentum.